Karur rally stampede: What triggered the deadly chaos at Superstar Vijay's TVK rally?

At least 36 persons, including children, were feared dead due to a stampede-like situation in actor-politician Vijay's heavily crowded rally on Saturday. At least 30 persons fainted and were rushed in ambulances to hospitals, officials said.

"Information from Karur is worrisome," Chief Minister M K Stalin said after the hospitalisation of several people.

Follow Live Updates | Thalapathy Vijay Rally Stampede News Live

Karur rally: What led to the deadly stampede?

While an official confirmation of casualties is still awaited, sources told ANI that the overcrowding at the venue triggered the panic and subsequent stampede. The state health minister claimed that more than 10 people were brought dead to the hospital.

Following the Chief Minister M K Stalin's directive, DMK district secretary and former minister Senthil Balaji immediately headed to the hospital to oversee relief measures. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian is also en route to the hospital, where the injured are being treated.

Response from leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow over the tragedy on X.

“The tragic incident that occurred during a political procession in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply distressing. I express my condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this event. I wish them mental strength during this difficult time. I pray that the injured recover soon," he wrote.

In a swift response, Chief Minister M K Stalin, who plans to visit Karur on Sunday to review the situation, described the reports from the ground as “deeply concerning.”

"The news coming from Karur is worrying. I have instructed former Minister @V_Senthilbalaji, Honorable Minister @Subramanian_Ma, and the District Collector to ensure that immediate medical treatment is provided to the members of the public who were caught in the crowd and admitted to hospitals," Stalin wrote on X.

He further directed Minister Anbil Mahesh, from nearby Tiruchi district, to reach the site and provide necessary assistance. Stalin also confirmed that he has communicated with the ADGP to take prompt steps to stabilize the situation. “I urge the public, medical teams, and law enforcement to cooperate fully,” he added.

Relief efforts underway

Following the chief minister’s directives, former DMK leader V Senthil Balaji went to the hospital to monitor relief operations and interact with the injured. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian is also on the way to the facility to oversee medical care for the victims.

Authorities are coordinating efforts to manage the crowd, provide timely medical treatment, and investigate the factors that led to the stampede. The incident has raised serious questions about safety arrangements at large gatherings, emphasizing the need for improved crowd control measures for future events.