NEW DELHI: At least 31 people were killed and more than 50 injured when a stampede broke out during a political rally led by popular Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, officials and local media said on Saturday.
The incident occurred in Karur district, where Vijay was addressing supporters of his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party during a state-wide tour ahead of elections expected in early 2026.
“Until now 31 people have died in the stampede,” Tamil Nadu lawmaker V. Senthilbalaji told reporters. He added that at least 58 others were taken to hospital.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian said emergency medical teams had been dispatched from nearby districts. At least 24 doctors from Tiruchirappalli and 20 from Salem were sent to Karur to treat the injured, according to The Hindu daily.
The Hindustan Times reported that part of the crowd surged towards the stage barricades in an attempt to catch a glimpse of Vijay, triggering the crush. The actor, who is widely known by a single name, was forced to halt his speech as the situation escalated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “deeply saddening”. “My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time,” he wrote on social media platform X.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said he had directed officials to provide urgent medical aid to the victims and ordered additional support from nearby Tiruchirappalli.
Deadly crowd incidents are frequent in India, particularly at large political or religious gatherings, where safety measures are often inadequate.
Earlier this year, at least six people were killed in a stampede at a Hindu temple in Uttarakhand state. Last year, 121 people died in northern Uttar Pradesh during a religious congregation.
