Actor-turned-politician Vijay has expressed anguish over the tragic stampede at his campaign rally in Karur on Saturday evening, which claimed the lives of at least 38 people, including 16 women and eight children, and left more than 150 others injured.
In a statement released through the official X handle of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, Vijay wrote, “My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital.”
The incident unfolded shortly after 7:30 pm when several attendees climbed a tree to get a better glimpse of Vijay’s speech. As the branches snapped, they fell onto the tightly packed crowd gathered about 50 metres away, setting off panic and chaos that turned fatal. Officials confirmed that men, women, and children were crushed in the stampede.
Authorities have since announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Davidson Devasirvatham said he was in touch with officers in Karur to oversee the investigation.
Leaders and celebrities alike reacted with shock. Kamal Haasan conveyed his condolences while calling on the state to respond swiftly. Rajinikanth and filmmaker Mari Selvaraj described the tragedy as deeply distressing, while President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also mourned the victims.
The Karur rally was part of Vijay’s latest campaign phase ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections in the Kongu region. However, the tragedy has already sparked a political storm, with the DMK and sections of social media placing blame on Vijay and his team for overcrowding. Critics allege his delayed arrival at the event aggravated the situation. During his address, witnesses said, Vijay had tossed water bottles to the crowd in an attempt to ease the commotion.