The death toll from the tragic stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur region has risen to 41.
According to the police, the TVK had reportedly sought permission for 10,000 people but, over the course of the day, that number swelled to over 25,000. The reported 500 police personnel present were unable to manage the crowd seeking a glimpse of TVK President Vijay, fondly called Thalapathy by his throng of fans.
Naturally, a blame game has erupted over who is responsible for this tragedy.
The Tamil Nadu government and police have accused the organisers of not providing adequate arrangements. Furthermore, they allege that the TVK rally did not follow the conditions laid down by the police while giving permission.
However, TVK counsel, S Arivazhagan, has alleged a political conspiracy behind the incident. Additionally, the TVK is seeking either a court-monitored probe or an investigation by any “independent agency”.
Vijay in a statement condoled the deaths, decrying the “irreparable loss of his dear brothers and sisters”. Furthermore, he announced he will provide ₹20 lakh each to the victim’s families and ₹2 lakh to those injured.
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, following an emergency meeting on the weekend, announced ex gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh to each of the victims’ families and ₹1 lakh each for the injured. Furthermore, Justice Aruna Jagadeesan will head the committee that will probe the stampede, he said.
But the bigger question remains - why does India regularly see death by stampedes?
Reports indicate that instances in India typically unfold at places of worship, political rallies, sporting events, and even railway stations. Beyond a tightly-packed gathering being a recipe for disaster, a major issue is the general disregard towards rules and regulations.
Citing government stats, a report by The Indian Express, said that from 2000 to 2022, 3,074 lives had been lost.
In 2025 so far, close to 90 people have tragically died in stampedes. This includes notable examples such as the RCB victory rally in Bengaluru, the Kumbh pilgrims that died at the New Delhi Railway Station as well as those who perished whilst rushing to take a dip at the Kumbh.
