At least 39 people lost their lives and more than 50 others were injured on Saturday in a tragic stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, held by popular actor-turned-politician Vijay, the state’s chief minister confirmed.
“So far, 39 people have died, including 13 men, 17 women, 4 boys, and 5 girls — while 51 people, including 26 men and 25 women, are receiving intensive treatment,” Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin told reporters in Karur, the district where the incident took place during a campaign event organized by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
State lawmaker Senthil Balaji earlier reported that 58 people were hospitalized following the chaos.
Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest stars for over three decades, has consistently drawn huge crowds to his public appearances since launching Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in 2024.
His party, targeting both the ruling DMK and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, is campaigning ahead of state elections scheduled for early 2026.
Footage from local media shows thousands of supporters surrounding a large campaign vehicle on which Vijay was seen addressing the crowd.
During the rally, videos captured him throwing water bottles to fainting attendees and calling for police assistance as the crowd surged uncontrollably.
“My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow,” Vijay wrote on X. “I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for a speedy recovery for those who are undergoing treatment in the hospital.”
Reports indicated that at least 44 doctors from nearby Tiruchirappalli and Salem were dispatched to Karur to assist the injured.
When asked about the cause of the stampede at a press briefing early Sunday, Stalin said, “Tamil Nadu has appointed a commission headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan to investigate the incident and submit a report to the government, after which further action will be taken.”
The chief minister had earlier announced compensation of 1 million Indian rupees ($11,280) for each of the victims’ families.
This is not the first time rallies organized by Vijay have raised safety concerns. Media reports documented at least six deaths following the inaugural meeting of his political party in October last year.
Despite restrictions on convoy size and venue changes imposed by authorities, the overwhelming turnout has repeatedly strained local infrastructure.
“The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X.
