
Police FIR Accusations
Tamil Nadu police held actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), responsible for the Karur stampede that killed 41 people.
The FIR cited Vijay’s delayed arrival as a key factor. The rally was scheduled for 9 am, but by 11 am, the crowd had swelled uncontrollably.
Vijay was expected at noon but arrived at 7 pm, allegedly to “build unnecessary expectations.”
Police described the event as a “deliberate display of political power” that triggered chaos.
Unplanned Roadshow
TVK’s campaign bus made multiple unscheduled stops, turning the rally into an impromptu roadshow.
Officers warned that basic amenities like food and water were insufficient for the growing crowd, but warnings were ignored.
The crowd exceeded expectations: 25,000 attended, though authorities had anticipated around 10,000.
Tragic collapse: Supporters climbed a tin shed for a better view; the roof collapsed, killing several party workers.
Political Fallout
DMK and TVK clashed politically. TVK claimed the tragedy was a “conspiracy” by DMK.
Lawyer arivazhagan cited prior TVK rallies as evidence of adherence to safety rules.
DMK, including spokesperson Syed Hafeezullah, urged restraint, emphasizing legal processes.
CM MK stalin requested public calm and cautioned against spreading defamation on social media.
Power Cut Controversy
TVK requested a temporary power shutdown from the tamil Nadu electricity Board during Vijay’s speech to manage safety.
Eyewitnesses reported a power outage from 7 to 7:30 pm, which led to crowd surges. Victims included Vinod Kumar’s sister-in-law and two children.
The state government denied a deliberate power cut, attributing any dimming to generator issues in TVK arrangements.
District officials confirmed no official electricity shutdown occurred.