New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday expressed deep grief over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede during TVK chief and actor Vijay’s public rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu.
The incident, which occurred amid heavy overcrowding at the campaign venue, claimed at least 31 lives and left several others injured.
In a post on X, PM Modi said the developments were “deeply saddening.” He wrote, “The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his condolences. “Deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives in a stampede in Karur, Tamil Nadu. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I pray to the Almighty to give them the strength to bear this grief and for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he wrote on X.
The rally, part of Vijay’s Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam campaign, drew massive crowds that spiraled into chaos on Saturday evening. Several attendees reportedly fainted due to suffocation, with many rushed to hospitals for treatment. Officials said overcrowding triggered panic, leading to the deadly stampede-like situation.
Expressing shock, AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami also mourned the deaths. He said he had instructed party volunteers and former minister M.R. Vijayabhaskar to provide assistance at hospitals and form human chains to regulate crowds. Palaniswami urged the DMK-led state government to ensure proper medical care for the injured and compensation for the bereaved families.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directed ministers and district officials to rush to Karur and oversee relief operations. State Health Minister Ma. Subramanian is monitoring the treatment of the injured. Further details from authorities are awaited.