Vijay Offers Jobs To Families After Karur Stampede Tragedy

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Friday distributed compassionate appointment orders to families who lost their loved ones in the Karur stampede, calling the tragedy an “unhealed wound” that continues to cause emotional pain. The initiative was part of the state government’s rehabilitation efforts for families affected by the incident that claimed 41 lives.

The stampede occurred on September 27 last year during a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) election campaign rally in Karur, ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election. A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident is currently underway. Following the tragedy, the Tamil Nadu government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to each bereaved family, while TVK provided an additional compensation of Rs 20 lakh.

During a function at the Atlas Arena in Karur, Chief Minister Vijay handed over appointment orders to one eligible member from each of the 32 affected families. The government said the jobs were provided based on the educational qualifications of the beneficiaries to help provide long-term financial support and stability to families who suffered losses.

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The distribution programme took place as the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court heard a petition challenging the state government’s decision to provide permanent government employment to the victims’ families. The court directed that the beneficiaries could, for the time being, be provided temporary appointments while the matter continues to be considered.

Addressing the gathering, Vijay expressed his grief over the tragedy and said the incident had left a lasting emotional impact on him. He said he remembered those who lost their lives and maintained that he entered politics with the aim of serving people and preventing such incidents in the future. He also responded to criticism over the tragedy and said he remained committed to public service despite the challenges.

The Chief Minister also spoke about political issues, alleging corruption existed in government departments in the past and claiming that his administration had worked to reduce bribery and improve governance. He reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling election promises, including a scheme to provide gold rings to newborns on the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai. The programme concluded with the distribution of appointment orders, with officials describing the move as an effort to support families affected by one of Tamil Nadu’s major recent public tragedies.

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