Tamil Nadu Stampede Tragedy: Finance Minister Sitharaman Visits Victims, Announces Relief Measures

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Karur on Monday, expressing deep concern over the tragic stampede that occurred at Vijay's TVK rally, which resulted in 41 fatalities on Saturday night.

During her visit to Velayuthampalayam, the site of the disaster, Sitharaman emphasized, "Such tragedies should never happen again." She also visited hospitals to meet with those injured in the incident.

Sitharaman clarified that her visit was solely to console the victims and their families, representing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government. "The Prime Minister has expressed profound sorrow regarding this tragedy. I will provide Home Minister Amit Shah with a detailed account of what I've witnessed here," she informed journalists.

She announced that each bereaved family would receive Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund once the district administration provides the necessary banking information.

"Many families are devastated; some had even brought young children without adequate food or water," Sitharaman remarked, describing the incident as "unimaginably painful."

The Finance Minister reported that medical professionals had assured her that the injured were receiving appropriate care. She emphasized the need for enhanced safety protocols and clear Standard Operating Procedures to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Sitharaman deliberately avoided political discussions, stating, "My visit has a specific purpose - to convey the Prime Minister's message and ensure support. I do not wish to engage in political controversies."

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who promptly visited the site following the tragedy and oversaw relief efforts, confirmed that the Tamil Nadu government would establish new regulations for political gatherings after Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission completes its investigation.

"Our response will be informed by the commission's findings," CM Stalin stated, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information.

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami expressed condolences to the affected families and highlighted the urgent necessity for improved crowd management measures.

TVK leader Vijay, deeply affected by the tragedy, described the deaths as "heart-wrenching" and promised Rs 20 lakh compensation for each bereaved family and Rs 2 lakh for each injured person.

The stampede occurred when thousands of attendees rushed forward to catch a glimpse of Vijay after his speech, triggering panic and chaos. More than 60 individuals sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. This tragedy has sparked grief and discussions regarding public safety at political gatherings throughout Tamil Nadu.