Chennai: The tragic stampede at a political rally in Karur, which claimed the lives of at least 41 people and left scores injured, has triggered a storm of grief and recrimination in Tamil Nadu. Actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay, whose Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party had convened the event, broke his silence on Monday evening, issuing an emotional video statement.
Visibly shaken, Mr. Vijay described the incident as the most painful moment of his life. “This tragedy should never have happened. My heart is heavy with sorrow,” he said, adding that he would personally visit Karur to meet the bereaved families.
While offering his condolences, the actor-politician also struck a defiant note, appealing directly to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. “Do whatever you want with me. But do not touch my functionaries. If action is to be taken, let it be against me, not them,” he said.
Mr. Vijay insisted that his party workers were not to blame for the stampede, and asserted that “the truth will come out.” He also questioned why such a disaster had occurred in Karur, despite similar rallies being held across other districts.
The Tamil Nadu police have filed cases against TVK organisers, though Mr. Vijay’s name has not been included in the charges so far. Senior officials indicated that lapses in crowd control and safety arrangements are under investigation.
Mr. Vijay further pledged financial assistance to the families of those killed, promising ₹20 lakh each. The State government has already announced ex-gratia relief, but political tensions have sharpened as the opposition seized upon the tragedy to criticise the ruling DMK’s handling of law and order.
For Mr. Vijay, the incident marks the gravest crisis since his foray into politics. With his video message resonating widely among supporters, the contours of the political fallout — and the accountability for the stampede remain under close public scrutiny.
