Actor-turned-politician and president of the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Thalapathy Vijay, appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Delhi for extensive questioning in connection with the Karur rally stampede that resulted in the deaths of 41 people. The questioning reportedly lasted between six and seven hours, marking a significant step in the ongoing probe ordered by the Supreme Court into the tragic incident.
The stampede occurred during a TVK-organised rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, triggering widespread outrage and raising serious questions about crowd management, administrative preparedness, and accountability in large political gatherings. Most of the victims were women and children, intensifying public scrutiny and demands for an impartial investigation.
CBI Probe and Supreme Court Intervention
The CBI inquiry was initiated following concerns over the adequacy of the initial investigation and allegations of systemic lapses. The Supreme Court, while ordering the probe, emphasised the need for an independent and transparent examination of events leading to the stampede, including planning, security arrangements, and response mechanisms.
As part of this process, Vijay was summoned to Delhi to provide his account of the rally’s organisation and the sequence of events on the day of the tragedy. Investigators are reportedly examining coordination between party organisers and local authorities, as well as compliance with safety protocols.
Vijay Denies Responsibility, Flags Police Lapses
During questioning, Vijay is said to have denied any direct responsibility on the part of TVK or its members. According to sources, he maintained that crowd control, security deployment, and traffic regulation were the responsibility of the Tamil Nadu police and district administration.
He reportedly highlighted delays and alleged shortcomings in policing arrangements, arguing that these factors contributed significantly to the chaos that led to the stampede. The party has consistently held that it followed prescribed procedures and obtained necessary permissions for the event.
Political and Public Reactions
The development has generated intense political reactions across Tamil Nadu. While opposition parties have called for accountability at all levels, TVK leaders have accused the ruling establishment of attempting to shift blame and politicise a human tragedy.
Public discourse has increasingly focused on the broader issue of safety at mass political events. Civil society groups and legal experts have stressed the need for stricter norms, better inter-agency coordination, and enforceable liability frameworks to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Focus on Accountability and Future Safeguards
The Karur stampede case has reopened debates on responsibility in political mobilisation, particularly when large crowds are involved. Experts argue that while organisers play a role, administrative preparedness and enforcement of safety norms are equally critical.
The CBI is expected to continue examining witnesses, officials, and documentary evidence in the coming weeks. Vijay has reportedly assured full cooperation with the investigation and is scheduled to appear again if required.
Investigation Continues Amid High Stakes
As the probe progresses, the case remains a test of institutional accountability and the rule of law. For the families of the victims, the investigation represents a hope for answers and justice. For the political system, it underscores the urgent need to balance democratic mobilisation with uncompromising public safety standards.
The outcome of the investigation could have lasting implications for how political rallies are organised and regulated across the country.
