A tragic stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s campaign rally in Karur has left at least 20 people feared dead, including children, and dozens injured.
The incident occurred Saturday evening when severe overcrowding caused panic among attendees, prompting multiple faintings and a temporary halt to Vijay’s speech.
Actor-turned-politician Vijay appealed for calm and requested his supporters to make way for emergency services. Amid the chaos, a 9-year-old girl went missing, leading to a public plea from Vijay for assistance in locating her.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin called the situation “worrying” and directed ministers and senior officials to provide immediate medical aid. Police resorted to baton charges to disperse the crowd, while ambulances and medical teams rushed the injured to nearby hospitals.
The rally, part of Vijay’s statewide campaign ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, also featured pointed criticism of the DMK’s handling of Karur’s airport proposal. Vijay hinted at a political shift in the state within six months.
Order was eventually restored, and the event concluded without further disruption.
