At Least 36 Dead, Over 50 Injured at Actor-Politician Vijay’s Rally in Tamil Nadu

At least 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, have died and more than 50 others were injured in a tragic stampede during a political rally led by popular Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu.

The event, organised by Vijay’s political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, drew massive crowds as part of his ongoing state-wide campaign tour ahead of the 2026 state elections.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin confirmed the fatalities and injuries, stating that 58 individuals were currently hospitalised. He is scheduled to visit the area on Sunday.

“This unfortunate incident is deeply saddening,” said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a statement on X.

Videos circulating on social media show Vijay atop a campaign vehicle, tossing water bottles to fainting supporters and calling for police assistance as the crowd surged beyond control. The actor later expressed his grief online, saying:

“My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow.”

Authorities have deployed at least 44 doctors from the nearby districts of Tiruchirappalli and Salem to assist with the emergency response.

In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Stalin has announced compensation of ₹1 million (approximately $11,280) to the families of those who lost their lives. An official inquiry into the incident has also been launched.

This is not the first time safety concerns have plagued Vijay’s political events. During the launch of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in October 2024, media reported at least six deaths due to crowd-related issues. Despite restrictions imposed by local police, including limits on convoy size and venue capacity, turnout at Vijay’s rallies has consistently overwhelmed public infrastructure.

Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest stars for over three decades, formally entered politics last year and has positioned his party as an alternative to both the ruling DMK and Prime Minister Modi’s BJP. His campaign has rapidly gained traction, drawing tens of thousands of supporters across the state.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over his rising political movement and raised urgent questions about crowd control and event safety in India’s high-stakes election campaigns.