NEW DELHI (BN24) — At least 36 people, including women and children, were killed and dozens more injured when a stampede broke out at a campaign rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, authorities said Saturday.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confirmed the death toll in a post on X, saying eight children and 16 women were among the victims. “I am deeply saddened and pained to learn that 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, have died so far,” Stalin wrote. He ordered a judicial inquiry led by a retired judge and announced compensation of one million rupees (about $19,500) for the families of those killed.
The tragedy occurred in the city of Karur, where thousands had gathered to hear Vijay speak. According to reports in the Hindustan Times, sections of the crowd surged toward the barricades near the stage in an attempt to catch a closer glimpse of the 51-year-old star, triggering the deadly crush.
Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest actors for more than three decades and founder of a political party launched in 2024, was addressing the rally when chaos erupted. He stopped speaking as the commotion grew and later expressed his anguish on social media. “My heart is shattered,” Vijay wrote on X. “I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur.”
Health Minister Ma Subramanian said more than 40 people were injured, while lawmaker V. Senthilbalaji reported that about 58 were being treated at hospitals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered condolences. “The deaths are deeply saddening,” he posted on social media. “My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time.”
Deadly crowd incidents are not uncommon in India, where mass gatherings often lack adequate safety measures. Earlier this year, a stampede at the Kumbh Mela religious fair killed 30 people, while in July 2024, at least 121 people died during a Hindu religious festival in Uttar Pradesh. Just this June, 11 cricket fans were crushed during celebrations for Bengaluru’s first Indian Premier League title.
The Tamil Nadu tragedy has reignited concerns over crowd management at political events and public gatherings, as Vijay’s growing popularity continues to draw massive turnouts across the state.
