Deadly crush at Tamil Actor Vijay’s Rally Leaves 39 Dead,Dozens Injured
Karur,India – At least 39 people have died and over 50 others injured in a devastating crowd crush at a political rally held by Tamil actor and politician Vijay in Karur district,Tamil Nadu,state officials confirmed Saturday. The incident occurred as massive crowds gathered for a public meeting as part of Vijay’s campaign tour for his newly formed political party, Tamilaga vettri Kazhagam.
According to Tamil Nadu chief Minister M K Stalin,the victims include 13 men,17 women,four boys,and five girls. Fifty-one individuals – 26 men and 25 women – are currently receiving intensive medical treatment.
The tragedy unfolded after a large number of supporters congregated for the rally, drawn by the immense popularity of Vijay, a leading figure in Tamil cinema for three decades. He launched his political party in 2024, positioning it as an alternative to both the state’s governing Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata party ahead of state elections slated for early 2026.
Videos circulating in local media depict thousands of people surrounding the campaign vehicle Vijay was standing on,addressing the crowd. Tamil Nadu police chief DGP Venkatraman stated that Vijay’s delayed arrival contributed to the swelling crowds, who had been waiting for hours “without sufficient food and water.”
During the rally,Vijay was observed throwing water bottles to supporters overcome by the heat and requesting police assistance as the crowd became unmanageable.
“My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow,” Vijay posted on X (formerly Twitter).”I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost thier lives in Karur.”
Authorities have dispatched at least 44 doctors from neighboring districts – Tiruchirappalli and Salem – to assist with the injured. Prime Minister Modi expressed his sadness over the incident in a post on X, calling it “deeply saddening.”
Chief Minister Stalin has announced a compensation of 1 million Indian rupees ($11,280) for the families of the deceased and has established an inquiry panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
This is not the first time safety concerns have arisen at vijay’s rallies. Media reports indicated at least six deaths following the launch of his political party in October of last year. Despite previous police-imposed restrictions on rally size and venue, the overwhelming public turnout has repeatedly strained local infrastructure and the capacity of authorities to maintain control.
