Vijay underscored the paramount importance of attendee safety throughout the tour. He stated that he prioritized safety above all else, making no compromises in this regard. He added that he set aside all political considerations, focusing solely on ensuring the safety of the people and carefully selecting appropriate venues with the necessary permissions.

The scene at the rally ground, with hundreds of scattered shoes and party flags, vividly portrays the horror of the event. Among the 40 fatalities were 17 women and nine children. A couple who were scheduled to marry in October also perished in the stampede. The incident claimed the lives of the sole breadwinner of a two-year-old girl’s family and children like Vishnu, leaving behind only tears for their families. The stampede at actor Vijay’s Karur rally occurred when he arrived approximately six hours late for the event. By the time he reached the venue, a crowd of over 25,000 people had gathered. His arrival led to an uncontrollable surge in the crowd, escalating into the stampede. Inadequate organization by his party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), and insufficient police personnel for crowd management are cited as contributing factors.

Authorities confirmed the fatalities, with ADGP (Law and Order) S Davidson Devasirvatham stating that an investigation has been launched. The stampede unfolded as the rally, which had far exceeded anticipated attendance, spiraled out of control, prompting Vijay to halt his speech. Among the deceased were 16 women and 10 children.

Initial estimates by organizers projected approximately 10,000 attendees; however, the actual turnout was nearly three times that figure. Director General of Police (DGP) G Venkatraman noted that prior TVK rallies had attracted smaller crowds, but this event saw an unexpectedly large gathering.

The crowd had been waiting for hours without adequate provisions of food and water, exacerbated by Vijay’s delayed arrival. The meeting was authorized from 3 pm to 10 pm, yet crowds began assembling as early as 11 am. By the time Vijay arrived at 7:40 pm, many had already endured a lengthy wait. Vijay acknowledged the efforts of the police but emphasized the responsibility of party cadres for crowd management. The cause of the disaster will be ascertained through an inquiry, with a one-person commission already established. Significant police presence was deployed at the venue.

Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed deep sorrow, noting the unprecedented scale of the loss of life at a political event in the state’s history. He instructed officials to provide immediate assistance, including compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh to the injured. An inquiry commission, led by a retired High Court judge, has been formed to investigate the incident.