Vijay’s party TVK has urged the Madras High Court for an independent investigation into the Karur rally stampede that killed 39 and injured 95. The party alleges “conspiracies” behind the tragic incident and seeks a suo motu probe by an independent agency.
Chennai: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the political party led by actor-politician Vijay, has approached the Madras High Court seeking an independent investigation into the tragic stampede that occurred at one of their rallies in Karur on Saturday.
According to the media, the High Court has allowed an urgent mention, requesting the court to take suo motu cognisance of the incident.
TVK has requested the court to order an independent inquiry, alleging that “conspiracies” were involved in the stampede.
The media reported that the judge accepted the urgent motion and noted that the case is likely to be taken up on Monday, despite the court being officially closed for the week due to puja holidays. The party is urging a probe conducted by an independent agency to ensure accountability and transparency.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, on Sunday, confirmed that a Commission led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan would visit Karur later in the day to investigate the incident, according to media.
Earlier in August, TVK had approached the High Court seeking directions for authorities to grant them permission to conduct rallies. At that time, the court had expressed concerns over accountability in the event of untoward incidents like the Karur stampede.
The court had reportedly remarked orally that Vijay should ensure his meetings are conducted in a lawful manner and set an example for others by advising that
“pregnant women and the differently abled not to attend the rallies.”
The Karur stampede, which took place during a TVK rally, left 39 people dead and 95 injured. Health Secretary P Senthil Kumar told ANI,
“A total of 95 people have been admitted to the hospital. 51 are admitted to the Government Medical College and Hospital. Except for one, the others are stable. Specialised doctors are looking after them. The remaining 44 are admitted to the private hospitals. 39 people have lost their lives.”
Following the tragedy, Vijay and his party have announced compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the families of each deceased victim and Rs 2 lakh for each injured person.
Background
In the background of ongoing legal matters, the Madras High Court on Friday issued notice to TVK leader Vijay on an appeal filed by the Chennai-based trust Thondai Mandala Saandror Dharma Paribalana Sabai.
The appeal challenges an earlier order by a single judge, which had declined to restrain TVK from using its party flag. A division bench comprising Justices G Jayachandran and M Sudheer Kumar posted the matter for further hearing after six weeks.
Thondai Mandala Saandror Dharma Paribalana Sabai had alleged trademark and copyright infringement by TVK and had filed an application arising from a civil suit seeking to restrain TVK from using its flag.
The single judge who heard the application on August 18 had declined to restrain TVK, prompting the Sabai to file the present appeal for review.
This case and the ongoing probe into the Karur stampede highlight the complex intersection of political activity, public safety, and legal accountability in Tamil Nadu.
TVK’s move to request a suo motu investigation reflects the party’s insistence on independent scrutiny, while the High Court’s urgent mention underscores the judiciary’s proactive approach to matters affecting public welfare.
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