The Tamil Nadu Assembly held a tense session discussing the Karur stampede that killed 41 people on September 27 during a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) campaign led by actor-politician Vijay. Chief Minister MK Stalin offered condolences and outlined the government’s response and rescue operations.
Stalin explained that multiple venues had denied permission for the event due to traffic and safety concerns. Veluchamy Puram was eventually approved with 11 conditions and security arrangements involving 517 policemen. However, he said the organisers did not comply with police instructions, allowing the campaign vehicle into the crowd, which led to commotion and the asphyxiation of women and children. Some attendees entered a generator room, shutting it down. Two ambulances were reportedly attacked during rescue efforts, and two people were arrested for these assaults.
On medical response, Stalin said 152 health personnel were mobilised along with 400 additional beds. All admitted patients except one were discharged. Autopsies, conducted by a 24-doctor team with special permission from the District Collector, were completed for 39 victims by September 28. Compensation of Rs 4.87 lakh has been provided to families. A One-Man Commission and SIT have been formed, and SOPs to prevent similar incidents are being drafted. Stalin noted that the Supreme Court had handed the case to the CBI.
The Leader of the Opposition (LOP) raised concerns over crowd control, questioning how 606 police personnel were deployed for a crowd of 10,000 when only 500 were present, according to senior officials. The LOP suggested the possibility of a hidden agenda and also questioned the rapid completion of autopsies. Health officials clarified that 22 doctors from other districts worked across three tables, completing 39 autopsies in 14 hours, with video documentation for legal review.
Repeated interventions by the Speaker were required to maintain decorum. AIADMK members staged a walkout after warnings from the Speaker regarding conduct and possible involvement of marshals.
