Karur Stampede Investigation Shifted to CBI Amid Supreme Court Oversight
Supreme Court mandates neutral probe into 41 deaths.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has formally taken charge of the investigation into the catastrophic Karur stampede that killed 41 people and injured over 60 during a massive Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally addressed by actor-politician Vijay on September 27. A dedicated CBI special team has already conducted an on-ground inspection at Velusamypuram, the epicenter of the tragedy, meticulously re-registering the original FIR filed by Tamil Nadu Police and submitting formal notification to the local court in strict adherence to legal procedure.
This high-profile transfer was ordered by the Supreme Court in response to a urgent petition filed by TVK, which demanded an independent and unbiased inquiry free from potential local political influence. A bench led by Justices J K Maheshwari and N V Anjaria directed the CBI Director to immediately appoint a senior-ranking officer to head the probe, supported by a handpicked team of investigators. To ensure absolute transparency, the court constituted a three-member high-level supervisory committee chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi, tasked with monitoring every stage of the investigation and submitting periodic progress reports.
The apex court pulled no punches in its scathing observations, declaring that the stampede “has left an indelible imprint on the conscience of citizens across the nation.” It expressed deep dismay over senior Tamil Nadu police officials rushing to media briefings with premature statements, actions the bench warned could “erode public confidence in the fairness and impartiality of the state-led probe.” Such conduct, the justices noted, was particularly egregious given the incident’s profound political ramifications and its direct bearing on citizens’ fundamental right to life and justice.
Emphasizing that “a fair investigation is not merely a procedural necessity but a constitutional entitlement,” the court underscored the need to restore shaken public trust in the criminal justice system. It highlighted how the tragedy—triggered by chaotic crowd surges, alleged permission lapses, and inadequate security—exposed systemic failures that demand accountability at the highest levels, regardless of political affiliation.
With grieving families still awaiting closure and survivors battling trauma, the CBI’s intervention marks a watershed moment. Under the watchful eye of Justice Rastogi’s panel, the federal agency is expected to scrutinize rally permissions, crowd control measures, emergency response delays, and potential negligence by organizers and authorities. The probe’s outcome could set a precedent for handling politically charged disasters nationwide.
Also Read: Vijay Welcomes Supreme Court’s CBI Probe Order in Tamil Nadu Stampede Case
