‘Nothing Could Have Been Done’: Eyewitnesses Recall Crowd Chaos At Actor Vijay’s Rally

Last Updated:September 28, 2025, 10:32 IST

At least 39 died in a stampede at TVK chief and actor Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. Eyewitnesses cited crowd mismanagement and delays.

Victims being taken to hospital after a stampede-like situation was witnessed during a rally presided by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor Vijay. (PTI)

At least 39 people were killed in a stampede at a rally led by TVK chief and actor Vijay on Saturday in Tamil Nadu’s Karur, with an eyewitness admitting that the massive crowd could not have been managed. “Nothing could have been done to control the crowd,” the eyewitness said.

While speaking to news agency ANI, an eyewitness, Nanda Kumar, said, “We were there ourselves. Nothing could be done to control the crowd. He (Vijay) had said he would arrive in Karur by 11 am, and everyone was informed about it. But when he came, it was much delayed. We pray that everyone who was injured recovers fully and returns home safely. But beyond that, such incidents must be prevented from happening again.”

“It’s hard to understand who is at fault. People had come expecting him to arrive on time; many were accompanied by children, were hungry, or faced difficult situations. Everyone came with the enthusiasm of wanting to see a star. This is deeply distressing.”

Kumar further emphasised that “such events should be carefully planned”. “Even if proper safety measures were in place, what can anyone do if ten or fifteen times more people show up than expected? This was a serious mistake. Such events should be carefully planned. I pray to the Almighty that the Tamil Nadu government provide proper support to the affected people.”

Another eyewitness, Suriya, told ANI, “Ambulances couldn’t reach the victims. There was barely any space for people to stand, and it took a long time to rescue them.”

Zakir, a relative of one of the victims, told ANI that the crowd swelled because Vijay, who was scheduled to arrive at 9 a.m., was delayed. “Near Thirukoilure, there was an enormous rush, especially with many young people and women. Events like this shouldn’t involve women and children. It’s extremely difficult and emotionally painful to witness,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede at his rally in Karur in Tamil Nadu on Saturday.

In a post on X, Vijay said, “My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital.”

(With inputs from ANI)

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