Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Promises Action After Deadly Stampede at TVK Rally as Political Tensions Rise

Chennai:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has promised decisive action following the devastating stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally that resulted in 41 fatalities. The rally was organized by actor-turned-politician Vijay's political party.

Describing the tragedy as "unprecedented" with a "heavy heart," the Chief Minister confirmed that the state government has already provided financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh to each bereaved family, while ensuring medical care for those injured. "The Karur incident is unprecedented and must never recur. I cannot forget the hospital images," Stalin stated in a video address.

A one-member judicial commission led by former judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan has been established to investigate the incident. Stalin affirmed, "The government's subsequent actions will be guided by the commission's findings."

The Chief Minister urged both the public and political organizations to avoid circulating rumors or false information on social media platforms. He emphasized that no political leader would ever wish harm upon innocent people, including their supporters. "Regardless of political affiliations, the victims are members of our Tamil family," he remarked.

Stalin also announced forthcoming new regulations and guidelines for political rallies and mass gatherings. These will be developed in collaboration with all political parties and relevant organizations after the commission submits its report.

Meanwhile, TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna has petitioned the Madras High Court to prevent state authorities from blocking Vijay's visits to victims' families. Additionally, TVK has demanded a CBI investigation into the tragedy, alleging conspiracy by the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) – accusations firmly rejected by the party.

TVK legal representative Arivazhagan informed the court, "We request transfer of the case from Karur Town Police to the CBI. The stampede was orchestrated by DMK functionaries. We have submitted photographic evidence and credible documentation."

The petition is scheduled for hearing on Friday.

Saturday's rally attracted enormous crowds but was marred by multiple violations, including making attendees wait over seven hours, allowing unregulated crowd movements with insufficient water and food provisions, and conducting a roadshow without proper authorizations.