Madras High Court Rejects CBI Probe Demand in Karur Stampede
The Madras High Court on October 3, 2025, declined a petition seeking a CBI investigation into the deadly stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur. The court dismissed the plea, stating it was not maintainable.
Court Orders Rally Guidelines, Issues Notices
While rejecting the CBI probe, the court laid down conditions for future public meetings. It ruled that political rallies should not be held on highways and must include essential amenities like drinking water and toilets. The court also issued notices to the Tamil Nadu government and Vijay’s party, TVK, asking them to respond to compensation petitions filed by victims’ families within two weeks.
Petitions Dismissed, Compensation, and Context
The petitioner, ML Ravi of Desiya Makkal Sathi Katchi, had called for a central investigation into the tragic incident that claimed 41 lives and injured many. The court noted that the petitioner was not directly related to victims and emphasised that the case was already under investigation. Meanwhile, TVK has announced ₹20 lakh compensation for the next of kin, and the state government has pledged ₹10 lakh for each deceased victim.
Next Steps and Implications
The court’s refusal prompts petitioners to seek relief through other benches, including the Madurai Bench. Civil society groups and victims’ families are likely to push for stronger judicial oversight and accountability. The ruling also increases pressure on the SIT and judicial commission assigned to probe the incident to produce timely and transparent findings.
