A political rally in Tamil Nadu turned into tragedy as at least 36 people, including eight children, lost their lives and more than 50 others were injured in a stampede during an event for actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party in Karur district.
The chaos erupted as nearly 30,000 supporters gathered to hear Vijay speak. Reports indicate that his late arrival and a sudden rush toward his bus triggered panic, causing many in the crowd to lose consciousness amid the crush.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling the incident “deeply saddening,” while Vijay said his “heart is shattered” and offered prayers and sympathy to the bereaved families.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a judicial inquiry into the incident and pledged financial assistance of one million rupees to each of the victims’ families, reports dw.com
The stampede is the latest in a series of deadly crowd tragedies in India, following similar incidents at religious gatherings earlier this year.
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