Karur Stampede: Actor Vijay Pledges Generous Aid to Families Devastated

In a heartfelt gesture amid profound sorrow, Tamil film icon and emerging political figure Vijay has committed Rs 20 lakh to the kin of each individual who perished in a devastating stampede at his political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The incident, which claimed 39 lives and injured nearly 100 others, has cast a shadow over the launch event of his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party.

Through an emotional statement posted on the party’s official X account, the 51-year-old star conveyed his anguish over the “unbearable loss.” Vijay described being overwhelmed by grief, with memories of supporters’ faces haunting him and his heart aching for those affected. “I am at a loss for words to express the pain my heart endures,” he wrote, emphasizing his solidarity with grieving families. He underscored that while no financial aid can mend such irreparable damage, it is his duty as a “family member” to stand by them, offering Rs 20 lakh per deceased relative and Rs 2 lakh to each person under treatment. Vijay also pledged comprehensive support from TVK for the injured’s recovery, praying for their swift return home.

This marks Vijay’s second public expression of condolences since the Saturday evening chaos, which unfolded when a crowd estimated at 27,000—far exceeding the venue’s planned capacity of 10,000—turned uncontrollable. His delayed arrival, nearly seven hours late, exacerbated the buildup, leading to the fatal crush. Authorities noted insufficient provisions for food and water, alongside inadequate policing; Tamil Nadu Director General of Police Shankar Jiwal acknowledged that only 500 officers were deployed despite the overwhelming turnout.

Vijay has so far avoided addressing criticisms regarding safety lapses at his events, including unpermitted roadshows and disregard for police guidelines, which have intensified following the Karur mishap.

The Tamil Nadu government, under Chief Minister MK Stalin, responded swiftly with Rs 10 lakh ex gratia for each deceased family and Rs 1 lakh for the injured. Stalin visited the site, instituted a judicial inquiry led by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, and prioritized medical aid. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, via the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund, approved Rs 2 lakh for victims’ next of kin and Rs 50,000 for those hurt, as confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Office.

As Vijay gears up for a potential electoral foray in next year’s Assembly elections, this tragedy underscores the challenges of mobilizing massive public fervor in India’s politically charged south.