29 dead in stampede at Vijay’s TVK rally in Karur
A massive political rally led by actor-politician Vijay turned into a tragedy on Saturday evening when a sudden and severe crowd crush in Karur resulted in the deaths of at least 29 people, with official reports indicating the toll may be higher. More than 50 others are currently receiving treatment for injuries.
The incident occurred at Veluchamy Puram, where thousands of supporters of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party chief had gathered for his campaign address as part of his statewide tour ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Cause and Immediate Aftermath
The catastrophe began when the already densely packed crowd, estimated by some sources to be around 30,000, surged uncontrollably toward the custom-built campaign vehicle from which Vijay was addressing the public.
The resulting crush caused multiple individuals, including children and women, to collapse and faint due to suffocation and being trampled.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed the casualty count, stating that the deceased included a number of children and 14 women.
Footage from the scene showed a distressed Vijay abruptly halting his speech, urging the crowd to calm down, and requesting police to clear the way for immediate medical assistance. The actor was seen attempting to distribute water bottles to those who were collapsing near the stage.
Government and Police Response
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed grave concern over the “worrying” news from Karur. He immediately directed senior ministers, including Health Minister Ma Subramanian and other key officials, to rush to the district to oversee rescue and relief operations on a “war footing.”
The injured were swiftly transported to the Karur Medical College Hospital and nearby private hospitals.
Additional medical teams and doctors from neighboring districts like Tiruchirappalli and Salem were mobilized to handle the influx of victims.