Chennai, Sep 27: A political campaign rally in Karur of Tamil Nadu turned into a devastating tragedy on Saturday night when a sudden crowd surge left over 20 people dead and many others injured, including children and the elderly.
The event, organised by actor-turned-politician Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), was held in Velusamipuram this evening. Thousands had gathered to hear Vijay address local grievances and launch a scathing critique of the ruling DMK government.
However, tragedy struck when a sudden power outage plunged the venue into darkness. According to eyewitnesses, panic quickly spread as the tightly packed crowd lost control, triggering a stampede-like situation.
Poor ventilation, overcrowding, and a lack of proper exit routes worsened the situation, officials said.
As chaos unfolded, parents and volunteers were seen carrying unconscious children out of the venue, while others struggled to clear space for ambulances and police vehicles to reach the injured.
Emergency services rushed to the site, but rescue operations were hampered by the sheer size of the crowd and obstructed exits. Ambulances lined the area to transport victims, while police, led by the Karur Superintendent of Police, worked to stabilise the scene and ensure access for emergency personnel.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin monitored the situation closely and ordered an immediate emergency response.
In line with his directives, Ministers Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi and Ma Subramanian rushed to Karur to coordinate rescue operations and medical assistance. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Davidson Devasirvatham also visited the district to assist local law enforcement and oversee crowd control measures.
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