The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has issued notices to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chairman and actor Vijay in connection with the tragic Karur stampede case, sending shockwaves across Tamil Nadu’s political and film circles. The notice was served on January 6 as the probe into the incident gathers pace.
The stampede occurred on September 27, 2025, during a massive public meeting organised by Vijay’s political party at Veluswamypuram in Karur district. While official permission was granted for a gathering of around 10,000 people, more than 30,000 supporters reportedly turned up. The situation spiralled out of control after a delay of nearly seven hours in Vijay’s arrival at the venue. Poor crowd management, inadequate barricading, and insufficient security arrangements triggered a sudden rush, leading to a deadly stampede.
The tragedy claimed the lives of 41 people, including women and children, and left hundreds injured. The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised serious questions about administrative preparedness and event management.
CBI Probe Under Supreme Court Supervision
Initially, the state police handled the investigation. However, victims’ families and TVK leaders later approached the Supreme Court, demanding an impartial probe. In October 2025, the apex court transferred the case to the CBI and directed that the investigation be conducted under the supervision of former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi.
As part of the probe, the CBI has now summoned Vijay to question him about alleged lapses in organising the rally and possible violations of safety and security norms. Investigators have already questioned TVK general secretary Bussy Anand and other senior party leaders in Delhi. The party has also submitted video evidence to the agency.
Political Fallout Intensifies
TVK leaders continue to blame the state government, alleging administrative failure led to the disaster. Meanwhile, opposition parties have intensified their attack on Vijay, accusing him of risking innocent lives for political mileage.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Vijay announced financial assistance of ₹20 lakh to the families of each deceased victim. Despite this, criticism has not subsided, with many demanding accountability for the lapses that led to the loss of lives.
As the CBI investigation continues, the key question remains unanswered: who bears ultimate responsibility for one of the deadliest political rally stampedes in recent Tamil Nadu history?
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