At least 38 people died after collapsing during a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur on Saturday in Tamil Nadu, according to hospital authorities.
The victims include eight children and 16 women.
Over 150 are hospitalised across Karur and Trichy. At least half a dozen victims are critical and the toll could go up, officials said.
Large crowds had gathered for the meeting, part of Vijay’s ongoing State tour.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister said news from Karur was concerning.
T.N. government has announced a commission to be headed by retired Judge Aruna Jagadeesan to probe into the circumstances that led to the stampeded, said CM Stalin.
In a post on X, CM Stalin said he had instructed former Minister V. Senthilbalaji, Health Minister Ma. Subramanian and the District Collector to ensure immediate treatment for the people who were caught in the stampede.
“I have also ordered the Minister from Tiruchi Anbil Mahesh to extend help on a war footing,” he said in the tweet.
CM Stalin said he had also spoken to the ADGP to take measures to ensure normalcy returns soon. He also requested the public and doctors to extend co-operation to the public.
Stalin, who left for Karur on Saturday night, announced a solatium of ₹10 lakh to the families of those who died in the stampede, and ₹1 lakh for those who were injured and are being treated in hospitals.
“My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital,” said TVK chief and actor Vijay.
A senior police official said TVK functionaries refused to conduct the meeting in open space at Karur. People walked with the vehicle and got exhausted while the crowd swelled, The Hindu reported.
“No arrangement was made for drinking water facilities. Many women came with their children to the event. An open ground would have been much safer place for the meeting…but the organisers did not agree to the suggestion,” the officer who preferred not to be quoted said to the newspaper.
 president and actor Vijay in Karur on Saturday in Tamil Nadu, according to hospital authorities.){kind=link}