Karur, September 29 (IANS) Police investigated the death of 41 people during the Tamilga Vitri Kazhgam (TVK), which was on Monday arrested the party’s Western District Secretary, Mathiazhagan as an investigation by Leader Vijay’s campaign rally in Karur.
Vijay took place last week after completing his speech at a pack ground at Veluayampalam near Karur.
Eyewitnesses said that sudden power cut caused panic, causing people to run towards backup lighting and exit points.
In the upcoming crush, 41 people, including women and children, lost their lives, and more than 60 were injured. Initially, Karur’s Deputy Superintendent of Police Selvaraj was handling the case, but the state’s top police leadership replaced him to lead a high level of investigation with Additional Superintendent Premanand.
The police have registered cases under five sections, including threatening to human life and disregarding public orders against many TV officials – General Secretary Anand, Joint General Secretary Nirmalkumar and now Mathiajahagan. Police say Anand has switched off his phone.
In a parallel crack on disintegration, the authorities arrested three people – Sagayam from Perumbakam (BJP), Shivaneson from Mangadu (TVK), and Avadi (a TVK social media administrator) – to spread rumors about the incident on social media – Sarathkumar – from Avadi (a TVK social media administrator). The tragedy has led to fast political reactions.
Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed deep grief and promised justice for the victims.
“We have ordered a judicial inquiry, and relief measures are going on. Speculations and irresponsible comments will only hurt grieved families,” he said, urging restraint.
Opposition AIADMK leader Edappadi. Palaniswami demanded accountability from the ruling DMK and questioned the mob control measures.
“This horrific incident reflects gross administrative failure. The government should respond as to why the security protocols were not implemented,” he said.
Vijay, who personally announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for each bereaved family, called the stampede “heartbreak” and urged his supporters to remain calm.
He has demanded a fair and independent investigation, saying, “We need truth so that never repeat such tragedy to come out.”
Officials continued to review the sequence of incidents that led to the deadliest political rallies in Tamil Nadu.
Investigators are expected to question more TV officials in the coming days, as the judicial commission and police investigation move forward in parallel.
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