NATIONAL: TVK Chief Vijay Moves Supreme Court Over Karur Stampede
Actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay, head of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), filed a petition in the Supreme Court on October 8, 2025, contesting the Madras High Court’s directive to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The move comes amid scrutiny over a deadly stampede during his rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27, which claimed 41 lives. Vijay’s challenge highlights concerns over the probe’s impartiality.
SIT Under Fire
The SIT, led by Inspector General Asra Garg, includes state police officials tasked with unraveling the chaos that unfolded when crowds swelled beyond estimates.
TVK argues the team’s composition invites bias against the party, potentially skewing findings on police roles and event management.
The petition urges an independent inquiry, perhaps headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, to ensure fairness.
Echoes of High Court Rebuke
The Madras High Court, in its October 3 order, lambasted TVK leaders for fleeing the scene without aiding victims, labeling it a display of poor leadership and zero remorse.
Justices noted how party members abandoned the injured, contrasting sharply with relief efforts by other groups.
Such remarks, TVK claims, have already tainted the investigation, fueling suspicions of orchestrated disruptions at the rally.
Vijay’s Outreach to Grieving Families
In a bid to mend fences, Vijay emailed the Director General of Police seeking permission for in-person visits to bereaved households.
He had earlier connected via video calls, offering solace and vows of support.
TVK spokesperson Arun Raj defended the leader, insisting no fault lies with him and urging continuity in his political path despite the tragedy’s weight.
- Over 60,000 attendees far exceeded the permitted 10,000
- Late convoy arrival sparked the fatal rush
- Disproportionate impact on women and children
- FIRs target lower-level organizers, not Vijay directly
Parallel Plea for CBI Handover
Adding layers to the legal fray, the father of a 13-year-old victim approached the Supreme Court, demanding the Central Bureau of Investigation take over.
His October 10 hearing slot underscores clashing calls for justice, one from the party, another from a shattered parent.
As probes deepen, the incident exposes rifts in political accountability and crowd safety norms.