Don’t Spread Rumours, No Leader Desires Death of Supporters: Stalin

In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has shaken Tamil Nadu, a stampede at a political rally in Karur on September 27, 2025, claimed 41 lives, leaving the state in mourning and sparking a wave of grief and outrage. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, addressing the public in a somber video message on September 29, 2025, condemned the spread of “irresponsible and malicious” rumors surrounding the incident and emphasized that no leader would ever wish harm upon their followers or innocent civilians. The devastating event, which occurred during a rally organized by actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has prompted widespread calls for accountability and preventive measures.

The stampede, described by Stalin as a “terrible tragedy” unprecedented in Tamil Nadu’s history, unfolded during a crowded political gathering in Karur, a bustling town in the western part of the state. As the death toll climbed to 41 on Monday, over 60 individuals remained hospitalized, receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the chaos. The incident has sent shockwaves across the state, with forensic teams investigating the site, including a sewer where several bodies were reportedly found, and local traders shutting shops in a mark of respect for the deceased.

Stalin, visibly shaken, recounted his immediate response to the crisis. “The moment I received the news, I mobilized the district administration and issued necessary orders. But I couldn’t stay away—I rushed to Karur that very night to be with my people,” he said. Visiting the Government Medical College Hospital in Karur, the Chief Minister was confronted with heart-rending scenes that he said would remain etched in his memory. “I am still in a heavy state of sorrow and grief,” he added, reflecting the collective anguish of the state.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Reaches Out to Stalin, Vijay After Karur Rally Tragedy

In his address, Stalin urged unity and responsibility, calling on all political parties and organizations to set aside differences and work toward the welfare of Tamil Nadu’s people. Without directly naming Vijay or the TVK, he stressed the need for guidelines to ensure such tragedies never recur. “When political parties and public organizations hold events, it is our collective duty to establish rules for responsible conduct,” he said, announcing that a one-person Commission of Inquiry, led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, has been tasked with uncovering the causes of the stampede. Stalin assured that the government would act decisively based on the commission’s findings and collaborate with all stakeholders to formulate preventive measures.

The Chief Minister also addressed the rampant spread of misinformation on social media platforms like X, where rumors about the incident have fueled tensions. “Regardless of their political affiliations, the deceased are our Tamil brethren,” he said, appealing for an end to divisive narratives. Stalin emphasized Tamil Nadu’s pioneering role in the nation, underscoring the shared responsibility to prevent such incidents in the future. “What happened in Karur must never happen again,” he declared.

The tragedy has drawn significant attention, with actor-politician Vijay facing intense scrutiny. The TVK has approached the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, seeking a CBI or independent probe into the stampede. Vijay, expressing profound grief, announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for each victim’s family. Meanwhile, the Karur police have filed a case against TVK office-bearers, citing negligence, as investigations continue to unravel the circumstances leading to the disaster.

The incident has prompted a outpouring of support for the victims’ families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. The Tamil Nadu government has pledged Rs 10 lakh per family and Rs 1 lakh for the injured, while the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and the BJP have offered Rs 1 crore and Rs 1 lakh, respectively, to the families of the deceased.

As Tamil Nadu grapples with this unprecedented loss, the Karur stampede has sparked a broader conversation about crowd management, event safety, and the responsibilities of political organizations. Social media reactions on X reflect the public’s grief and frustration, with many calling for stricter regulations at large gatherings. “How can such a tragedy happen at a rally? We need answers,” one user posted, while another wrote, “This is a wake-up call for all parties to prioritize safety.”

With the inquiry underway and the state mourning its loss, Stalin’s call for unity and accountability resonates strongly. The Karur tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation to ensure the safety of Tamil Nadu’s people, particularly during large-scale public events.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Reaches Out to Stalin, Vijay After Karur Rally Tragedy