- At least 40 people were killed in a crush at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu.
- The event was organized for actor-turned-politician Vijay, attracting over twice the permitted number of attendees.
- Victims included nine children, 17 women, and 13 men; 51 others are in hospital.
- Police have filed charges against three TVK party members for negligence and possible homicide.
- Compensation of one million rupees will be given to each victim’s family.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister MK Stalin have both expressed condolences.
- Deadly stampedes remain a recurring problem in India, with multiple incidents reported this year.
A massive tragedy struck the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Saturday when a political rally descended into chaos, leaving at least 40 people dead and dozens more hospitalized.
The incident occurred in Karur district during a campaign event for actor-turned-politician Vijay, where tens of thousands of supporters had gathered.
According to officials, the victims included nine children, 17 women, and 13 men. A further 51 people are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.
Authorities confirmed that the deadly crush was triggered when the swelling crowd surged forward unexpectedly, forcing Vijay to suspend his address.
Police revealed that organizers had permission for a gathering of 10,000 people, but the actual turnout more than doubled, creating dangerously overcrowded conditions.
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As a result, law enforcement has filed a case against three senior members of Vijay’s TVK party on possible charges of negligent conduct and culpable homicide.
Television footage showed people collapsing in the suffocating crowd as emergency services battled to rescue the injured. Survivors recounted scenes of panic as families were separated in the chaos.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced financial compensation of one million rupees (approximately $11,300) for families of the deceased, alongside an official inquiry into the disaster. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his sorrow, describing the incident as “deeply saddening.”
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The tragedy has reignited concerns about public safety at mass gatherings in India, where stampedes remain a recurring hazard. Earlier this year, similar disasters occurred at religious festivals and sporting events.
