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Hema Malini criticised the authorities for allowing a bus that was too large for the narrow road to enter the venue.
‘Vijay’s Bus Was Too Big’: NDA Delegation Visits Karur Stampede Site, Alleges Security Lapse
An NDA delegation led by BJP MP Hema Malini visited Karur on Sunday to assess the aftermath of the devastating stampede during a TVK rally, which claimed 41 lives, including 17 women and children. The delegation also met those injured in the incident at a local hospital.
Hema Malini blames overcrowding and venue choice
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Speaking at the hospital, Malini expressed deep concern over the scale of the tragedy. “It is sad to see 41 people, including women and small children, have died. Who is responsible – whether the organisers or the administration – we have to find out,” she said.
Malini emphasised that the rally venue was inadequate for the large crowd. “Only 10,000 people could have been accommodated, but over 30,000 gathered. Vijay is famous, and it was his responsibility to ensure that not too many people came. I have also been told he requested another place but was allotted this very narrow space for the campaign.”
She also criticised the authorities for allowing a bus that was too large for the narrow road to enter the venue. “Police should have stopped him,” she remarked.
NDA committee conducts on-ground assessment
An eight-member committee appointed by BJP National President JP Nadda conducted a detailed on-ground assessment of the events leading to the stampede, speaking with numerous witnesses.
BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi highlighted the intelligence failures that contributed to the tragedy. “Permission was granted for 10,000 people. When 30,000 gathered, it is nothing short of an intelligence failure on the part of the police. The venue was like a chicken neck, too narrow for such a large crowd. This is extremely unfortunate,” she said.
Committee calls for judicial probe
BJP MP Anurag Thakur stressed the need for accountability. “Who is responsible? There should be a free and fair probe. We feel a sitting Supreme Court judge must look into this to ensure the truth comes out,” he stated.
The delegation also raised concerns about delays in medical assistance. Despite the presence of multiple hospitals in the vicinity, the injured were not taken immediately, prolonging their suffering.
The committee plans to meet district officials with a prepared list of questions. “The ruling party and officials must answer. We want a response by this weekend so the committee can finalise its report and submit it to the BJP national president at the earliest,” Malini added.
About the Author
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public…Read More
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public… Read More
September 30, 2025, 15:01 IST
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