At least 39 people, including nine children, have died in a stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district, officials said.
Tens of thousands had gathered on Saturday for a campaign event by actor-turned-politician Vijay, which was delayed for several hours. Local media reported chaotic scenes, with many people collapsing in the packed crowd.
Chief Minister MK Stalin confirmed the toll included 17 women, 13 men, and nine children. Another 51 people are being treated in hospital. He announced compensation of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400) for each victim’s family and ordered an inquiry.
Grieving relatives described missing and injured loved ones. One man told ANI his brother’s elder son had died while the younger remained unaccounted for, and their mother was in intensive care.
Vijay said his heart was “broken” by the tragedy and offered condolences to the bereaved, along with prayers for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident “deeply saddening.”
Fatal crowd crushes are common in India, with recent tragedies reported at religious gatherings and sporting events.
Source: BBC
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