Hyderabad: A massive Karur rally stampede left 31 people dead on Saturday evening during a public meeting of actor-turned-politician Vijay. More than 30 others sustained injuries in the tragedy.
Officials said the victims included 16 women, nine men, and six children. Health Minister M.A. Subramanian confirmed the casualties and warned that the toll could climb.
Vijay’s party rally overflow triggered Karur rally stampede tragedy
Chaos erupted after Vijay appealed from the stage for help in locating a nine-year-old girl who had gone missing in the crowd. The announcement caused confusion, and people pressed forward in panic. Attendees collapsed as suffocation spread, and several fainted. Vijay cut his speech short and asked for calm before leaving the venue.
The administration had permitted 10,000 people, estimating up to 50,000 attendees. Instead, about 1.2 lakh people surged into the rally grounds. The pressure made it difficult for many to stand, especially long-time TVK supporters who had been waiting for hours.
Seven of the deceased were identified as party workers. Local hospitals struggled to handle the injured, with emergency teams rushing patients.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted condolences, describing the incident as extremely unfortunate. He extended prayers for the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
