A stampede at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, India, on September 27, 2025, resulted in the deaths of at least 36 people, including eight children. More than 40 others were injured. The rally was organized for actor-turned-politician Vijay, who recently launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in 2024.
The incident occurred in Velusamypuram, along the Karur-Erode highway, where a large crowd had gathered. Reports indicate that the stampede was triggered when attendees surged towards the stage barricades around 7:30 PM, eager to get a glimpse of Vijay. In the ensuing chaos, many people fainted, and children became separated from their families. Numerous individuals were trampled as volunteers and police struggled to manage the situation.
Eyewitness accounts and initial reports suggest that overcrowding was a significant factor. While permissions were granted for approximately 10,000 to 30,000 attendees, estimates indicate that the actual crowd size swelled to nearly 60,000. Supporters had begun gathering at the venue from midday, and Vijay's arrival was delayed by several hours, causing the crowd to swell in hot conditions. Witnesses reported instances of fainting, dehydration, and restlessness even before the rally commenced.
Visuals from the rally showed Vijay pausing his speech to address the crowd and distributing water bottles. He was also seen calling for police assistance and attempting to locate a missing child. Ambulances faced difficulties navigating through the dense crowd to provide medical aid.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Tamil Nadu state government announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the family of each victim. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directed ministers and officials to provide immediate medical assistance to the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and offered support to the bereaved families.
Several factors are being examined as potential causes of the stampede. These include the unexpectedly large crowd size, delays in Vijay's arrival, inadequate crowd control measures, and the absence of buffer zones around the stage. Some reports also suggest that supporters falling near Vijay's vehicle and power outages during the event may have contributed to the chaos.
The incident has drawn criticism, with some questioning the safety arrangements and crowd management strategies employed at the rally. Investigations are underway to determine the exact causes of the stampede and identify any lapses in security protocols.
