Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday evening announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the 36 victims who died in a stampede during a public rally for TVK chief and actor Vijay in Karur. Additionally, Rs 1 lakh will be provided to those receiving medical treatment.
Reports said that a one-member Commission of Inquiry, led by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, will investigate the incident and report to the government. In his statement, CM Stalin expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, which included the loss of eight children and 16 women, and described the loss as “irreparable.” He assured that the government is committed to supporting the victims and has instructed District Collectors from nearby regions to assist with medical care. CM Stalin plans to visit Karur to meet the victims’ families and those hospitalized. The stampede was attributed to overcrowding at the rally, leading to panic and chaos. The Union Home Ministry has requested a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu government regarding the incident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other prominent leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and President Droupadi Murmu, expressed their condolences and prayers for the victims and their families. Local leaders, including DMK’s Senthil Balaji, confirmed that medical assistance is being prioritized, with private hospitals instructed not to charge the injured. As of the latest reports, 58 individuals were hospitalized, with ongoing efforts to provide adequate medical care. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also urged party members to support the affected families and collaborate with authorities in relief efforts.
