At least 39 people were crushed to death in a large crowd during a campaign rally for leading politicians in southern India’s Tamil Nadu state.
According to Reuters on the 28th, supporters flocked to the popular movie star-turned-politician Vijay (51)’s campaign event in Karur, Tamil Nadu, the day before, and many people were crowded.
“So far, 39 people have died, including 13 men, 17 women, four boys and five girls, and 51 people, including 26 men and 25 women, are in intensive care,” Tamil Nadu Prime Minister M.K. Stalin said.
Local media Hindustan Times reported that the crush occurred as crowds flocked to the stage barricades to catch a glimpse of Vijay.
Vijay visited Karur district the day before for a campaign rally ahead of local elections scheduled for early next year.
Videos spread online showed Vijay standing on a large campaign vehicle and speaking, with thousands of supporters surrounding him.
As the crowd swarmed towards the vehicle, a series of people fainted, Vijay threw a water bottle and delivered it to the people.
But eventually, when it got out of control, I asked the police for help.
Vijay is considered one of the most popular actors in southern India’s Tamil-speaking film industry over the past 30 years, and he founded a local party last year to serve as the party’s leader.
Since the Indian “superstar” entered politics, there has been a huge crowd to see Vijay at every rally.
At least six people were reported to have died at the first rally of the foundation held in October last year.
In the meantime, police have taken measures such as changing venues and limiting the size of car processions in connection with BJ’s rallies, but the number of participants has been so high that local infrastructure has become overloaded, Reuters said.
“My heart is breaking. I am in unbearable and indescribable pain and sadness,” Vijay told X.
“We express our deepest condolences and condolences to the families of our beloved siblings who lost their lives in Karur,” he said. “I pray for the quick recovery of those who are being treated at the hospital.”
“I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate events that took place during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also wrote in an X, expressing his condolences, saying, “I wish my family support during this difficult time for those who have lost their loved ones.”
Stalin said he would pay compensation of Rs 1 million per person to the victims’ families.
It also added that it would form a committee headed by a former judge to investigate the case and take further action based on the results of the investigation.
SAM KIM
US ASIA JOURNAL
