KARUR: The death toll in the crowd surge at actor-politician Vijay’s rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district rose to 31 on Saturday night. Officials confirmed that the victims included six children, nine men, and 16 women.
The chaos broke out during a campaign event of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), where a massive crowd had gathered as part of Vijay’s statewide political tour. Many people fainted in the crushing rush and were rushed to Karur Medical College Hospital and nearby private facilities.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian initially put the figure at 29 dead, adding that nearly 50 people were receiving treatment across hospitals. To strengthen medical response, 24 doctors from Tiruchi and another 20 from Salem were mobilised to Karur.
CM Stalin Orders Emergency Action
Reacting to the tragedy, Chief Minister MK Stalin posted on X that he had directed urgent medical assistance. He instructed former minister V. Senthilbalaji, Health Minister Ma. Subramanian, and the District Collector to immediately coordinate relief efforts.
“I have also ordered Tiruchi minister Anbil Mahesh to extend help on a war footing,” Stalin said. The CM added that he had spoken to senior police, including the ADGP, to ensure normalcy returns swiftly. He appealed to the public and doctors to cooperate in aiding survivors.
Stalin also called an emergency meeting at the Secretariat in Chennai and is expected to visit Karur on Sunday morning.
How the Chaos Unfolded
Videos and images from the site showed thousands of people lined up on both sides of the Karur–Erode highway as Vijay’s campaign vehicle passed through. The growing crowds became uncontrollable, pushing forward in waves and creating a dangerous surge.
Witnesses said several children and adults fainted as the space choked during the actor’s speech. Vijay eventually paused his address, appealed for calm, and left the stage earlier than scheduled.
PM Modi Condoles Loss
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident, describing it as “deeply saddening.” “My thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones. Wishing them strength in this difficult time and praying for the speedy recovery of all injured,” he said.
Officials on Ground
Karur Medical College Hospital dean R. Shanthimalar told The Hindu earlier in the evening, “As of now, seven adults and three children have died. More cases are coming in, and ambulances are still arriving. We need time to compile complete details.”
Additional ministers and the district collector visited hospitals to oversee relief operations. Authorities eventually managed to restore order at the venue.
The Karur rally was one of the key stops in Vijay’s “Velicham Veliyeru” campaign ahead of the 2026 assembly polls. Saturday’s tragedy has cast a dark shadow over the actor’s political journey, raising serious concerns over safety management at mega rallies in Tamil Nadu.