NATIONAL: Karur Stampede: SC Orders CBI Probe
The tragic stampede at a political rally in Karur has left a deep scar on public trust, prompting India’s top court to step in with a decisive move.
On October 13, the Supreme Court mandated a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry, overriding earlier state-level efforts and raising questions about accountability in crowd management.
This ruling came amid widespread grief over the loss of 41 lives, including women and children, during the event organized by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on September 27.
The court’s intervention seeks to address lingering doubts and ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances.
Supreme Court Takes Charge
A bench led by Justices J.K. Maheshwari and N.V. Anjaria voiced deep concern for citizens’ fundamental rights, calling the incident a shocking reminder of vulnerabilities in public gatherings.
They stressed the need for a comprehensive probe to clear suspicions from all sides.
To oversee the process, the court formed a three-member committee under former Justice A.M. Khanwilkar.
This group will monitor progress and report back, aiming for transparency in every step.
The CBI must now submit monthly updates to the court, a measure designed to keep the investigation on track and accountable.
From High Court Clash to CBI Shift
The path to this order was fraught with legal battles. Petitioners, including families of victims, first approached the Madras High Court seeking a CBI-led inquiry, but it was turned down.
Instead, the High Court set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by senior IPS officer Asra Garg, comprising state police officials.
This decision drew sharp criticism for potential bias, especially after the court questioned the TVK’s handling of the crisis.
TVK, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, challenged the SIT formation in the Supreme Court.
They argued that the High Court’s remarks, including comments on Vijay’s leadership and the party’s alleged flight from the scene, had already tainted the process.
TVK’s Stand and Broader Fallout
In its petition, TVK highlighted how those judicial observations could prejudice the probe, urging an independent review under Supreme Court supervision.
The party denied fleeing, claiming swift aid was provided to the injured.
The rally, meant to energize supporters, turned chaotic due to overcrowding, with over 30,000 attendees at a site suited for far fewer.
Questions linger about permissions, security lapses, and the role of local authorities.
- Post-mortems were reportedly rushed within hours, sparking further scrutiny on procedural integrity.
- Political rivals, like the DMK, accused some pleas of being manipulative, adding layers to the controversy.
- The event’s fallout includes a temporary ban on rallies along highways until safety protocols are updated.
This CBI probe could redefine how political events are policed, but it also underscores the human cost of oversight failures.