AMN / CHENNAI
The death toll in the tragic stampede at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has risen to 39, with more than 50 people admitted to hospitals across the district. Of them, 23 remain in intensive care units (ICUs).
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced an ex-gratia of ₹10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives, and ₹1 lakh for those undergoing treatment in ICUs. The Chief Minister also set up a one-member judicial commission led by retired High Court judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan to investigate the incident.
The Union Government has sought a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu administration.
The rally, part of a statewide political tour, was organised by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party launched by actor-politician Vijay. Expressing grief, Vijay said he was “deeply shocked” and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
National leaders including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish at the loss of lives.
President Murmu, in a social media post, conveyed her condolences and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. Vice President Radhakrishnan described the incident as one of “unspeakable pain” and extended his sympathies to grieving families. Prime Minister Modi also conveyed condolences, wishing strength to the bereaved and recovery to the injured.
Union ministers including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Health Minister J.P. Nadda, and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also expressed their sorrow and prayed for the recovery of those injured.