On September 30, TVK leader Vijay addressed a video statement, reflecting on the tragic stampede at his rally in Karur that resulted in 41 fatalities on September 27. He described this as the most painful moment of his life. Vijay requested Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to take any action against him personally, rather than against members of his party. Expressing that his ‘heart is heavy with pain’, he extended gratitude to those who attended his events. He emphasized that safety has always been a priority, stating that TVK had selected safe locations for their rallies and obtained the necessary police permissions. He clarified that he refrained from visiting the Karur site immediately to prevent further complications.
Vijay expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift recovery for the injured. He committed to meeting with the victims soon and appreciated the support he received. He noted that rallies in other districts were conducted safely and questioned why the incident occurred only in Karur, asserting that the rally adhered to all regulations. He criticized the FIRs and arrests of certain TVK members, urging CM Stalin to focus on him instead. Vijay concluded by stating that the party’s political efforts would persist ‘stronger and braver than ever.’
