Vijay’s first rally post-stampede: Puducherry police issue strict advisory; attendance capped at 5,000

Actor-politician Vijay will address a rally in Puducherry on Tuesday, his first public meeting since the deadly stampede in Karur in September. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief will speak to the gathering from the rooftop of his campaign bus, even as the party insists that it’s a standalone, controlled public meeting and not a roadshow.

The Puducherry police had earlier denied permission for the meeting, but the approval was given after the TVK agreed to a slew of conditions. Senior Superintendent of Police (Law and Order) R. Kalaivanan has issued an advisory, focusing on the crowd control and safety regulations.

Attendance has been strictly limited to 5,000 people, while children, pregnant women and elderly persons will not be permitted entry.

Residents of neighbouring Tamil Nadu have been prohibited from entering the venue and have also been requested not to travel to Puducherry to avoid inconvenience.

Only individuals with a valid QR code pass issued by the TVK will be permitted inside the venue. Parking of vehicles would be allowed at the Puducherry Marina, the rear side of the sports stadium and the old port area.

The organisers of the meeting have been asked to provide drinking water at the venue, toilet facilities, ambulances, first aid medical teams, fire engines and proper enclosures.

Vijay and the TVK have been facing heat after a deadly stampede broke out at his rally in Karur on September 27, killing 41 people and injuring several others. The mishap occurred after the crowd swelled beyond expectation and surged uncontrollably upon the actor's arrival.