At least 36 people, including 16 women and eight children, died at an overcrowded rally organised by actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party in Karur district, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday, revealed chief minister MK Stalin.
Around 58 others who attended the rally were still hospitalised. The venue was heavily crowded and this led to a stampede-like situation despite police making efforts to manage the people.
Chief Minister MK Stalin has asked minister Ma Subramanian and Anbil Mahesh to reach Karur immediately. Former minister Senthil Balaji was already at the Karur government hospital, which was reported to be overcrowded. Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin cancelled his Dubai trip following the stampede.
"Information from Karur is worrisome," said CM Stalin. The chief minister, who is expected to reach Karur on Sunday morning, appealed to the general public in Karur to cooperate with doctors and police. He said he has instructed top police officials to take appropriate steps to restore normalcy in Karur.
Responding to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "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."
The crowd became uncontrollable during Vijay's speech following which 20 people, including party workers, fainted at the rally. They were taken away in two ambulances and rushed to Karur government hospital. These included three children, as per reports. The TVK supporters were reportedly awaiting him for six hours before his arrival.
Several children have gone missing and the parents were still searching for them.
Vijay's campaign vehicle cruised slowly through the crowd but he had to pause his speech for a short while and allow two ambulances to carry away a few party men who suddenly swooned. During his speech when people fainted, Vijay requested police to help manage the crowd. He also offered water bottles to cadres who were feeling unwell.
Police later resorted to lathi-charge in Karur to drive off people who gathered to witness the rally, reported PTI.
With inputs from Lakshmi Subramanian