Minister Says at Least 39 Dead, 51 Injured in Stampede at Indian Actor-Politician Vijay’s Rally

At least 39 people were killed and more than 50 others injured in a stampede during a political rally by Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay on Saturday, Tamil Nadu’s chief minister said.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin told reporters in Karur, where the incident took place during a rally organized by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK):
“So far, 39 people have died—13 men, 17 women, four boys, and five girls. Another 51, including 26 men and 25 women, are receiving intensive treatment.”

Earlier, state legislator Senthil Balaji had told reporters that 58 people had been admitted to hospitals.

Vijay’s rallies draw massive crowds
One of Tamil cinema’s most bankable stars for over three decades, Vijay launched TVK in 2024 with the aim of challenging both the state’s ruling DMK and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party. His campaign has consistently drawn huge crowds ahead of state elections scheduled for early 2026.

Local media footage showed thousands gathered around a campaign vehicle, with Vijay addressing supporters from its rooftop. During the rally, he was seen tossing water bottles to fainting supporters and appealing to police for help as the crowd swelled out of control.

“My heart is shattered; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and grief,” Vijay wrote on X.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families of my beloved brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the speedy recovery of those undergoing treatment.”

According to media reports, at least 44 doctors from neighboring districts, including Tiruchirappalli and Salem, were rushed to Karur to assist.

Asked Sunday morning about the cause of the stampede, Stalin said: “Tamil Nadu has appointed a commission, headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the incident and submit a report to the government, after which further action will follow.”

He had earlier announced compensation of ₹1 million ($11,280) for the families of each victim.

This is not the first time Vijay’s rallies have raised safety concerns. Last October, after the party’s founding meeting, media reports said at least six people had died. Despite restrictions imposed by police—including limits on convoy size and changes to venue locations—the sheer number of attendees has repeatedly strained local infrastructure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the tragedy “deeply saddening” in a post on X, writing: “The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is extremely tragic.”

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