Stampede at Actor Vijay’s TVK Rally in Karur Kills 41
Karur, Tamil Nadu, September 27, 2025 — A tragic stampede erupted during a campaign rally led by actor-turned-politician Vijay under his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Karur district, resulting in the deaths of at least 41 people and injuring dozens more. The Economic Times+3Wikipedia+3The Guardian+3
What Happened
- The rally took place in Veluswamypuram, along the Karur–Erode highway. The Economic Times+3Wikipedia+3AP News+3
- The crush occurred when a surge of supporters tried to move closer toward Vijay’s vehicle, following delays in his arrival. The Economic Times+4AP News+4The Guardian+4
- The gathering far exceeded the permitted capacity (reportedly more than 25,000 in attendance versus a permitted 10,000). AP News+4Reuters+4India Today+4
- Many victims were women and children. The Economic Times+3Wikipedia+3AP News+3
- Emergency services rushed the injured to hospitals in Karur and nearby districts. AP News+2India Today+2
Aftermath & Reactions
- Arrests & FIRs: The Karur police have booked several senior TVK leaders including Bussy Anand, C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar, and V.P. Mathiyazhagan.
- Mathiyazhagan arrested: TVK’s Karur West District Secretary, Mathiyazhagan, was taken into custody under charges including culpable homicide and endangering public safety.
- Vijay’s statement: In a video message, Vijay expressed anguish and said his heart “is full of pain.” He appealed to CM Stalin not to target TVK workers, and asserted “all truth will come out.” The Economic Times+3The Economic Times+3Hindustan Times+3
- Political tension: Vijay indirectly hinted at a conspiracy or political vendetta behind the tragedy, provoking strong pushback from the ruling DMK.
- DMK response: DMK has critiqued Vijay’s timing and handling, saying he must accept accountability. Kanimozhi, a DMK leader, told media that Vijay “should have listened to police” warnings.
- Compensation & probe: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced compensation for victims’ families and formed a one-member commission to investigate the incident.
