At least 31 people were killed and more than 50 others injured on Saturday during a political rally held by Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, officials confirmed.
According to V. Selvaraj, a senior police official in the district, the tragedy unfolded when large crowds gathered to hear Vijay speak as part of his ongoing campaign tour for his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
Authorities said the incident appeared to be a stampede, though investigations are ongoing. State lawmaker Senthil Balaji told reporters that 58 people were admitted to hospitals following the chaos.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his grief, writing on X that the news was “worrying” and that he had directed officials to provide immediate medical assistance. Stalin is expected to visit Karur on Sunday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted, calling the incident “deeply saddening” in a post on X.
Vijay, popularly known in the film industry by a single name, had only recently launched his political movement and begun statewide campaigning ahead of elections due next year.
While calls to the state health ministry and the Chief Minister’s office went unanswered, officials said additional medical support was being brought in from nearby Tiruchirappalli to handle the influx of patients.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over Vijay’s fledgling political campaign, highlighting the risks of overcrowding at large-scale rallies during an already heated election season.