Karur Stampede Case: CBI Questions Vijay Over Delay, Safety Lapses
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday questioned actor-turned-politician Vijay in the Karur stampede case. The tragedy claimed 41 lives, including nine children, in September last year. The incident took place during a rally organised by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Karur is located about 400 km from Chennai. According to PTI, investigators focused on alleged delays and crowd management failures. More than 50 people were injured in the stampede.
Seven-Hour Delay Under CBI Scanner
Investigators questioned Vijay about an alleged seven-hour delay at the venue. The delay refers to the gap between the scheduled start and his arrival. The CBI is examining whether the prolonged wait caused the crowd to swell. Officials are also assessing if organisers failed to plan for the growing turnout. Reports indicate the crowd size increased from 10,000 to nearly 30,000 people. This sharp rise raised serious safety concerns. The agency is analysing whether the delay worsened crowd density.
Coordination With Police and Event Planning Probed
The CBI is also probing whether TVK workers coordinated properly with local police and district officials. Investigators are reviewing delays in the movement of Vijay and party leaders. They want to understand how those delays affected crowd control. The agency is examining the party’s organisational structure. It is also looking into who planned the Karur rally and approved the venue. Investigators are trying to determine when Vijay received details about the event.
What Led to the Karur Stampede
Vijay has drawn massive crowds since launching TVK in 2024. Supporters began gathering at the venue early in the afternoon. Around 7.30 pm, chaos broke out soon after Vijay started speaking. He addressed supporters from atop his campaign vehicle. People began fainting in the overcrowded area. Panic spread quickly. Several women and children collapsed. Vijay stopped his speech and threw water bottles to those in distress. He also appealed for police assistance. Later, he expressed condolences online and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The Supreme Court later transferred the case to the CBI for an independent probe.
