Chennai, October 18, 2025 - Actor Vijay's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has credited ₹20 lakh each to the families of the victims of the Karur stampede. The tragic incident, which occurred on September 27, 2025, during a political rally organized by TVK in Karur, Tamil Nadu, claimed the lives of 41 people and injured dozens more.
The total amount disbursed by the party to the 39 bereaved families is ₹7.8 crore. In addition to the compensation for the families of the deceased, TVK has also announced ₹2 lakh for each of those injured in the stampede. Furthermore, the party has pledged to adopt the victim families and provide long-term support for the education and employment of surviving family members.
The announcement of the financial assistance and long-term support measures underscores the party's commitment to assisting those affected by the tragedy. Selvarani, who lost her daughter in the stampede, confirmed that the promised ₹20 lakh had been credited to her bank account.
The Karur stampede occurred when a massive crowd gathered in Velusamypuram on the Karur-Erode highway to see actor-politician Vijay. Reports indicate that Vijay's arrival was delayed by nearly seven hours, leading to overcrowding and a surge in the crowd as people attempted to get a glimpse of his convoy. Preliminary investigations and eyewitness accounts suggest that poor planning, inadequate security measures, and a lack of basic amenities such as food and water contributed to the disaster.
Following the incident, political leaders across the country expressed their condolences. The Tamil Nadu government has formed a one-member commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stampede. The Tamil Nadu Assembly also commenced its session with a tribute to the victims.
The Supreme Court has ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the probe into the Karur stampede. The Court has also constituted a retired judge-led Oversight Panel to supervise the investigation, ensuring a fair and impartial inquiry into the incident.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has informed the Madras High Court that TVK is not a recognized political party. This statement was made in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the party's derecognition following the stampede. The court has directed that all cases related to the Karur stampede be handled by a special bench.
In the wake of the tragedy, TVK has instructed its functionaries, members, and volunteers to refrain from celebrating Diwali this year as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the Karur stampede. "Let's honor their memory and stand together in silence and respect," the party stated.
Vijay, who launched TVK on February 2, 2024, has expressed his profound grief and sorrow over the incident. He had earlier announced his intention to provide financial assistance to the families of the deceased and the injured.
