The Tamil Nadu government has submitted a report to the Supreme Court regarding the Karur stampede, attributing the tragic event to "reckless and uncoordinated actions" by organizers and workers of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party. The incident, which occurred at a political rally in Karur, resulted in the deaths of 41 people and left many others injured.
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Karur City Police, TVK leader Vijay's delayed arrival at the venue was a significant factor contributing to the chaos. The FIR alleges that Vijay deliberately delayed his arrival and held unauthorized roadshows at multiple locations, causing traffic obstruction and hindering public movement while organizing unsanctioned receptions. It is reported that Vijay halted his vehicle for several minutes at Veluchampatti Junction, further prolonging the wait for the already swelling crowd.
The prolonged wait under the hot sun, without sufficient water or medical facilities, resulted in fatigue and dehydration among thousands of attendees. Desperate for shade, supporters climbed onto makeshift tin shelters and nearby trees, causing structures to collapse and branches to break. The falling debris and people falling onto the crowd below triggered panic and a surge. The FIR stated, "The situation spiraled out of control as supporters surged forward, creating unbearable pressure". The police reported that 500 personnel were deployed for security and traffic management but were overwhelmed by the surging crowd.
The FIR also names four TVK functionaries as accused, including Karur West District Secretary Mathiyazhagan as the primary offender, along with TVK General Secretary Anand and Joint General Secretary CT Nirmal Kumar. They face charges under several sections of the law, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, acts endangering human life, disobedience to a public servant's orders, and causing damage to public property.
The Tamil Nadu government, in its submission to the Supreme Court, has highlighted the "reckless and uncoordinated actions" of the TVK organizers and workers as the primary cause of the stampede. The report emphasizes the lack of proper planning and safety measures for managing a large crowd, as well as the failure to respond effectively to the escalating situation. The Karur City Police have registered the case and launched a full investigation, vowing to hold all responsible parties accountable. The TVK has also filed a petition before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, alleging that the tragedy was a premeditated act orchestrated by local Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) politicians to undermine Vijay's rising influence.
