Chennai: A political storm has erupted in Tamil Nadu following comments made by Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan regarding the recent stampede in Karur, with BJP State President K. Annamalai launching a scathing attack against the actor-turned-politician. The September 27 stampede, which occurred during a rally organized by actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), resulted in the deaths of 41 people and injuries to many more.
Haasan, who recently visited the site to express condolences and meet with the victims' families, urged that the organizers take responsibility for the tragedy. He also defended the police and the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, stating that they had acted respectfully and performed their duties well. Haasan also said that it was time for the organizers to apologize and accept their mistake.
Annamalai has strongly criticized Haasan for his remarks, accusing him of siding with the ruling DMK party and suggesting that Haasan had compromised his principles for political gain. "Kamal Haasan has sold his soul a long time back for one Rajya Sabha seat," Annamalai stated, referring to Haasan's recent nomination to the Upper House. He further added, "Whatever Kamal Haasan speaks, people of Tamil Nadu are not going to take him seriously. Going to Karur and saying the administration is not at fault, who will accept that?". Annamalai believes that Haasan's comments are biased and intended to favor the DMK, even on a sensitive issue like the Karur tragedy.
The BJP leader's remarks have ignited a fierce debate in the state, with many questioning Haasan's motives and the timing of his statements. Critics argue that Haasan's defense of the government and police appears premature, especially with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Inspector General of Police Asra Garg currently probing the incident following the Madras High Court's directions. The Court has also temporarily banned public rallies on highways until a Standard Operating Procedure is framed.
Haasan's initial reaction to the tragedy involved expressing his condolences via social media. He stated that his "heart trembles" upon hearing the news from Karur and offered his deepest condolences to the families of the victims. He also appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to ensure proper treatment for the injured and provide appropriate relief to those affected.
In the wake of the stampede, various political figures have visited Karur and offered their condolences, including Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, and leaders from AIADMK, VCK, and PMK. Actor Vijay, whose rally was the site of the tragedy, announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh each to the families of the deceased. The Madras High Court is also hearing petitions seeking a CBI or independent probe into the stampede.
The Karur stampede has brought political rallies and public safety under intense scrutiny. The incident has triggered a blame game, with opposition parties accusing the government of negligence and demanding accountability. As investigations continue, the controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan's remarks has further intensified the political atmosphere in Tamil Nadu.
