New Delhi: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the stampede in Karur that claimed 41 lives during a political rally, describing the tragedy as “unprecedented” and leaving him with a “heavy heart.” He assured that the state government would take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Stalin further announced that new rules and guidelines for political rallies and large gatherings would soon be formulated. These guidelines, he said, would be developed in consultation with all parties and organisations once the commission investigating the incident submits its findings.
The assurance came on the same day that Tamil Nadu political party TVK, led by Aadhav Arjuna, approached the Madras High Court seeking permission for actor-turned-politician Vijay to meet the victims’ families. The party also demanded a CBI probe into the tragedy, alleging involvement of ruling DMK functionaries. TVK submitted photos and documents in support of its claims, which the DMK strongly denied. The petition is scheduled for hearing on Friday.
The Karur rally, held on Saturday, had drawn massive crowds but reportedly involved several violations. These included prolonged waiting times exceeding seven hours, inadequate water and food for attendees, uncontrolled crowd surges, and roadshows conducted without proper permissions.
