The deadly stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur, where at least 33 people were killed, comes days after the Madras High Court warned Vijay over crowd controlling at his events.
The high court, while hearing a TVK plea challenging restrictions by Tamil Nadu police, asked the party as to who will take responsiblity in case of untoward incidents. The court was referring to TVK rally in Tiruchirappalli, where one person died recently. The court then said it is the responsibility of political leaders to ensure safety of people who come to their rallies.
The high court also pointed out that children, elderly and differently abled people should not be encouraged to attend such overcrowded rallies if their safety cannot be guaranteed.
At least 33 people were killed at the Karur rally on Saturday, including multiple children. At least one child went missing.
People who fainted were rushed to hospitals immediately, following which Vijay continued his speech. However, he ended it soon after sensing the stampede-like situation in the crowded area.
DMK district secretary and former minister Senthil Balaji arrived at Karur government hospital immediately while minister Ma Subramanian and Anbil Mahesh reached the spot later.
Chief Minister MK Stalin will arrive in Karur on Sunday morning while Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin cancelled his Dubai trip following the stampede. AIADMK supremo Edappady Palaniswami is also expected to reach Karur during the night.
