At least 38 people were killed and 40 injured during a stampede at a political rally for a popular Indian actor and politician in the southern India state of Tamil Nadu, the state’s health minister said late Saturday.
A massive political rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district, reportedly attended by tens of thousands, turned tragic while being addressed by Vijay, one of the state’s most prominent actors-turned-politicians.
According to Indian media citing local officials, the chaos unfolded as Vijay spoke to the crowd from atop his campaign vehicle. A surge of supporters attempting to approach his bus led to a stampede, resulting in several people falling. The rally took place amid sweltering heat, and officials noted that Vijay had arrived several hours behind schedule.
“There was indiscipline,” said senior official Subramanian, confirming that an investigation has been launched into the incident.
The Press Trust of India reported that at least 30 people fainted during the rally and were taken to nearby hospitals by ambulance. Vijay reportedly paused his speech when aides raised the alarm, but resumed briefly before ending it early after realizing the severity of the situation within the crowd.
In the aftermath, Vijay expressed his sorrow on social media. “My heart is shattered,” he wrote on X. “I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also responded to the tragedy, calling it “deeply saddening.”
“My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones,” he posted. “Wishing them strength during this difficult time and praying for the swift recovery of all those injured.”
