Tamil Nadu To Frame Rules For Public Events After Karur Stampede
In the wake of the tragic stampede at a political rally in Karur that killed at least 39 people and injured over 50, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin has said the government will draft rules and guidelines for organizing public events. The announcement came during his visit to Karur, where he also expressed condolences and called for political unity.
Death Toll And Inquiry
Authorities confirmed 39 fatalities, including women and children, and 51 injured in the stampede during actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rally. A judicial commission led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan has been appointed to determine the causes and accountability. The government also announced ₹10 lakh compensation for each deceased’s family and medical support to the injured.
Calls For Safety Norms
CM Stalin said public gatherings should no longer be held without strict safety standards. He pledged to consult political parties and civil organisations to formulate a binding framework covering crowd control, emergency response, permissions, and route planning. He also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading rumours on social media, stressing that misinformation can aggravate grief and tension.
Delayed Arrival And Lapses
Officials noted that Vijay arrived several hours late, which allowed the crowd to surge forward in the heat. Local police admitted that the swollen crowd lacked sufficient drinking water and movement space. The prime ministry and state leaders have called for independent investigations and a full review of how political rallies are approved and managed.
