At least 39 people, including nine children, have died in a crowd crush at a political rally in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, officials confirmed on Saturday. The incident occurred in Karur district during a campaign event for actor-turned-politician Vijay, where tens of thousands had gathered.
Television footage showed people fainting as the packed crowd surged. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who visited the district, said that among the dead were 17 women, 13 men, and nine children. He added that 51 people were injured and are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
The Chief Minister announced a compensation package of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400) for the families of each victim and promised a full inquiry into the incident.
For some families, the grief is unimaginable. A man waiting outside a hospital told news agency ANI, “My brother’s two children were there. Two boys. The elder one passed away, the younger one is missing. My sister-in-law is in the ICU. What should I do?”
Vijay, in a statement posted online, expressed his heartbreak saying, “My heart is broken. I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow.” He sent his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of those who died, and prayers for a speedy recovery to those in hospital.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted, calling the tragedy “unfortunate” and “deeply saddening” in a message on X (formerly Twitter).
Deadly crowd crushes remain a recurring problem in India, often during political events, religious festivals, or sporting occasions. Similar tragedies have already occurred this year, including incidents at the Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium.
Authorities have pledged swift action to determine the cause of the Karur tragedy and to implement measures to prevent such devastating incidents in future.
Melissa Enoch
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