In a video posted on TVK Vijay’s official handle, Vijay expressed his anguish over the situation. He said his heart was "only filled with pain." (Videograb)
Actor-politician Vijay sent a strong message to Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday. He asked the CM not to take action against his or Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s (TVK) supporters following the Karur stampede.
The tragedy occurred during Vijay’s campaign rally on Saturday, September 27. 41 people died, and several others were injured.
Vijay’s message comes after the arrest of two TVK members. Karur West District Secretary Mathiyazhagan and town functionary Paun Raj were taken into custody on Monday night.
In a video posted on TVK Vijay’s official handle, Vijay expressed his anguish over the situation. He said his heart was "only filled with pain."
He urged CM Stalin to avoid targeting his party members and supporters. “CM sir, if you intend to take revenge, do anything to me, but don't lay a hand on them. I will either be at home or at the office, do whatever you want to me,” he said.
Vijay emphasized the importance of public safety over political ambitions. He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
“All the truth will come out soon,” Vijay said. He insisted that he and his party members followed the designated event arrangements. “Other than that, we did not do anything,” he added.
Meanwhile, ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP A Raja commented on Vijay leaving Karur after the stampede, saying, “Fleeing means someone has a guilty conscience.”
The Stalin-led government released video clips showing alleged violations, including TVK members climbing rooftops at Namakkal.
The government also questioned the rally venue. They claimed Karur Roundana had a petrol bunk and a drainage canal, making it unsuitable for a large gathering. Authorities said the power supply was not suspended during the rally, countering TVK's claims.
A court remanded Paun Raj to judicial custody until October 14. He had arranged flagpoles and banners for Vijay’s rally and provided shelter to Mathiyazhagan after the incident.
Police also arrested a YouTuber and a journalist linked to the incident.
While Vijay faces no case, FIRs were filed against three key TVK leaders: Mathiyazhagan, state general secretary Bussy Anand, and deputy general secretary Nirmal Kumar.
The FIR notes that Vijay stayed inside his campaign vehicle at Velusamypuram during the rally, causing crowd restlessness.
The Karur stampede has sparked debate over rally arrangements, crowd control, and political responsibility. Vijay continues to express sympathy for the victims while distancing himself from legal action against his supporters.
The ongoing investigation and court proceedings will determine further accountability for the tragic incident.
