The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took a significant step in probing the tragic Karur stampede by visiting the Velusamypuram rally site, where 41 people died during a Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) event led by party leader Vijay on September 27, 2025. Marking its first on-ground inspection since taking over the case from the Special Investigation Team (SIT), the CBI team utilized the Focus Laser Scanning Solution, a cutting-edge 3D laser scanning technology, to recreate the area’s geography and better understand the circumstances that led to the crowd crush.

Led by Superintendent of Police Praveen Kumar, the 12-member CBI team meticulously examined the rally site, briefly restricting traffic to conduct the operation. Senior state police officers, including DSP Selvaraj and Inspector Manikandan, accompanied the investigators as the agency questioned local residents, business owners, shopkeepers, and employees of a nearby software company situated close to the venue.

The investigation team also collected and reviewed CCTV footage from nearby establishments to gather evidence. Four witnesses from the locality, including those who saw the incident firsthand, were called to the CBI office for detailed questioning on the ongoing probe’s third day. Simultaneously, CBI officials scrutinized police arrangements and actions on the day of the tragedy, interviewing involved officers from the Karur Town Police jurisdiction.

Also Read: #BiharPolls: ‘Singhams’ of Bihar and Assam Police Face Off in Bihar Elections

The Supreme Court directed the transfer of the stampede investigation from the SIT to the CBI on October 13, following petitions demanding an impartial inquiry. The CBI formally took charge on October 16, with the SIT handing over more than 1,000 pages of investigative documents shortly thereafter. Months of forensic, CCTV, and technical analyses are anticipated to unveil the reasons and lapses responsible for the catastrophic incident at the political rally.

As the probe intensifies, the CBI continues to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to one of Tamil Nadu’s deadliest political tragedies, aiming to hold accountable those responsible and ensure justice for the victims' families.

Also Read: Maharashtra Doctor Suicide: Family Seeks SIT Inquiry into Harassment Allegations