Tamil Nadu Rally Tragedy: 39 Killed, Dozens Injured in Crowd Crush at Vijay’s Campaign Event

Published: September-28-2025, 14:00 EDT

A political rally in southern India turned deadly when a massive crowd crush in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district left at least 39 people dead, including children, according to state officials. More than 50 others are being treated in hospitals as authorities launch an inquiry into the tragic incident.

Deadly Incident at Karur Rally

The tragedy occurred on Saturday at a campaign event for popular actor-turned-politician Vijay, where tens of thousands had gathered. Local media reported that the event was delayed for several hours, leading to overcrowding and rising tensions within the tightly packed venue.

Television footage showed scenes of people fainting and collapsing in the dense crowd as emergency responders struggled to reach those in distress. The victims include 17 women, 13 men, and nine children, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confirmed during a press briefing.

Compensation and Government Response

Chief Minister Stalin announced that the families of the deceased will each receive financial assistance of one million rupees (approximately $11,300). He also confirmed that an official inquiry has been launched to determine how the situation escalated into a fatal crush.

“This is a heart-wrenching tragedy for the people of Tamil Nadu,” Stalin said. “We will ensure a full investigation so that such an incident does not occur again.”

Families Mourn Loved Ones

The scale of the tragedy was reflected in the grief of families gathered outside hospitals in Karur. Speaking to ANI news agency, one man described the devastation after losing his nephew while another child remained missing.

“My brother’s two children were there. The elder one passed away, the younger one is missing. My sister-in-law is in the ICU. What should I do?” he said, his voice breaking as he waited for updates.

Vijay Expresses Sorrow

In a statement shared online, Vijay expressed his profound grief over the loss of life.

“My heart is broken. I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow,” the actor-politician wrote. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and offered prayers for the recovery of those injured.

National Reaction

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences, calling the incident “unfortunate” and “deeply saddening” in a message posted on social platform X. Leaders across party lines have urged for safety reforms to prevent future tragedies during large-scale public gatherings.

Deadly Crowd Surges in India

Mass crowd surges are not uncommon in India, where religious festivals, political rallies, and sporting events frequently attract massive gatherings. Safety measures are often stretched, and overcrowding can quickly become dangerous.

Earlier this year, deadly stampedes were reported during the Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium, raising questions about crowd management and preparedness at major events.

Experts warn that without stronger safety regulations, similar incidents may continue to occur. The Karur tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved planning, crowd monitoring, and emergency response protocols at large-scale gatherings across the country.