Karur Stampede Tragedy: 39 Lives Lost at Actor Vijay's TVK Rally - Eyewitnesses Describe Chaos and Poor Planning

39 individuals lost their lives in a tragic stampede during a rally addressed by TVK Chief and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu.

Karur (Tamil Nadu):

An eyewitness to the Karur stampede incident stated that "crowd control was impossible" as 39 people died at a rally where Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay was speaking in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday.

In his conversation with ANI, eyewitness Nanda Kumar explained, "We were present at the scene. Controlling the crowd was impossible. Vijay was scheduled to arrive in Karur by 11 am, and this information was widely communicated. However, his arrival was significantly delayed. We hope for the complete recovery of all injured individuals and their safe return home. Beyond this tragedy, such incidents must be prevented in the future."

"It's difficult to determine who is responsible. People arrived expecting punctuality; many brought children, were hungry, or faced challenging circumstances. Everyone came with enthusiasm to see a celebrity. This situation is extremely heartbreaking."

Mr. Kumar emphasized that "such gatherings require careful planning."

"Even with proper safety protocols, what can be done when attendance exceeds expectations by ten or fifteen times? This was a serious error. Such events demand meticulous planning. I pray that the Tamil Nadu government provides appropriate support to those affected."

Another eyewitness, Suriya, described the scene: "Ambulances couldn't access the area. There was insufficient space for people. Evacuating individuals took an extremely long time."

Additionally, Zakir, a relative of one victim, told ANI, "Vijay was expected at 9 in the morning, but he didn't arrive then. This resulted in a massive crowd... Particularly near Thirukoilure, there was tremendous congestion with many young people and women. Women and children should not attend such gatherings. Please understand, witnessing this is extremely difficult and emotionally devastating."

Meanwhile, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and actor Vijay expressed profound sorrow regarding the tragic loss of lives in the stampede at his rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday.

In a statement on X, Vijay conveyed his grief: "My heart is broken; I am experiencing unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot convey. I offer my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who perished in Karur. I pray for the rapid recovery of those currently receiving hospital treatment."