Deadly Stampede at Political Rally in Southern India
At least 36 people, including eight children, were killed in a devastating crowd crush during an election campaign rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The tragedy occurred when approximately 50,000 supporters gathered to see popular actor-turned-politician Vijay, overwhelming the venue's capacity.
Chaotic Scene as Crowd Surged Forward
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as thousands of supporters tried to get closer to the politician, who was delivering a speech from the roof of his campaign bus. The situation escalated when people began fainting due to the extreme crowding and heat conditions.
"I am deeply grieved and extend my deepest condolences to the families of our dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur," Vijay wrote on social media following the incident.
Emergency Response Challenges
Emergency services struggled to reach victims as the massive crowd impeded ambulance access. Local authorities called in medical teams from surrounding districts to assist with the overwhelming number of casualties. Dozens of injured people were transported to nearby hospitals, with many reported to be in critical condition.
History of Crowd Disasters in India
This tragedy marks the latest in a series of deadly crowd incidents in India. In February 2025, 18 people died in a stampede at New Delhi railway station during religious festival travel. Just weeks earlier, dozens perished during the Maha Kumbh Mela pilgrimage, one of the world's largest religious gatherings that occurs once every 144 years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating he was "praying for the speedy recovery of all the injured." The incident has raised serious questions about crowd management and safety protocols at political events across the country.