Not less than 36 folks have been killed and dozens injured throughout a stampede at a rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay – an enormous star within the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
Ma Subramanian, the state’s well being minister, stated at the very least 40 folks had been injured on the occasion, and that the loss of life toll included eight youngsters.
Vijay, certainly one of Tamil cinema’s greatest actors for 3 a long time, has drawn large crowds to his public conferences since launching his political social gathering, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, in 2024.
Indian media experiences, quoting native officers, stated the stampede was triggered when a bunch of Vijay’s supporters and followers fell whereas making an attempt to get near his bus.
Footage additionally confirmed Vijay throwing water bottles from the highest of the automobile to fainting supporters throughout the rally, and calling for police assist when the gang grew to become uncontrollable.
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Pic: AP
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in a publish on X: “The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening.”
In a publish on social media at 6.45pm UK time, Vijay stated “my heart is shattered” after the incident.
“I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur,” he added.
“I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital.”
Stampedes are comparatively widespread in India when massive crowds collect. In June, at the very least 11 folks died after a crush outdoors the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after the staff gained their first IPL title.
Additionally it is not the primary time Vijay’s rallies have confronted security issues, with at the very least six deaths reported after the primary assembly of his political social gathering when it was launched in October final 12 months.
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