Allegations by Vijay’s party (TVK)
TVK accused tamil Nadu police of causing the Karur stampede that killed 41 people.
Claimed the tragedy occurred after police lathi-charged the crowd without warning.
TVK argued that police mishandled the situation when some supporters threw slippers.
Stated that the sudden lathi-charge triggered panic and led to mass casualties.
DMK Government’s Response
The ruling DMK, led by cm M.K. Stalin, dismissed TVK’s allegations.
Called the claims “baseless” and lacking evidence.
Maintained that the government and police were not responsible for the deaths.
High Court’s Intervention
The madras high court formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
SIT to be led by Inspector General (North) Asra Garg.
Karur police ordered to hand over all relevant documents immediately.
The court rejected anticipatory bail for TVK district Secretary N. Satish Kumar.
Judges questioned why TVK failed to manage the crowd and why supporters indulged in vandalism during Vijay’s roadshow.
Police Explanation
Tamil Nadu DGP G. Venkataraman explained that the crowd was larger than expected.
Expected turnout: 10,000; Actual turnout: ~27,000 people.
People waited from 11 a.m. until Vijay arrived at 7:40 p.m. in scorching heat.
Many had no food, no water, and waited for hours, worsening crowd frustration.
Leftover evidence at the venue included:
Piles of shoes and slippers.
Crushed water bottles.
Torn party flags.
Broken poles and scattered paper from party poppers.
Key Takeaways
Death toll: 41 due to a stampede.
TVK blames police lathi charge; DMK rejects claims.
High Court orders SIT probe to determine the actual cause.
Highlights issues of poor crowd control, inadequate planning, and the political blame game.
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