In a scathing judgment, the Madras High Court has condemned the conduct of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leaders, including its founder, actor-turned-politician Vijay, for allegedly fleeing the site of the Karur stampede, which occurred on September 27, 2025 during a TVK rally and led to the tragic loss of 41 lives.
The matter came up before Justice N Senthilkumar in the case PH Dinesh v. Home Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu. The Court’s observations mark a significant legal and political development in Tamil Nadu, bringing both political accountability and state responsibility under sharp judicial scrutiny.
Background: The Karur Stampede Tragedy
On September 27, 2025, a TVK political rally in Karur turned into a tragedy when a stampede-like situation led to the death of 41 people and left dozens injured. Eyewitnesses alleged that the crowd became unmanageable as party workers and fans gathered in large numbers to see actor-turned-politician Vijay, who recently floated his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Shockwaves spread across Tamil Nadu, with demands for accountability both from the event organisers and the state government, which was responsible for ensuring law and order during such political gatherings.
Court’s Strong Observations Against Vijay and TVK
Justice N Senthilkumar expressed severe disapproval of the conduct of Vijay and his party members. According to the Court, instead of assisting in rescue efforts, the leaders *fled the scene, leaving their followers and cadres behind in chaos.
The order stated:
“It is really sad that Mr. Vijay, the leader, and the members of his political party which organised the meeting fled the scene of occurrence… This Court strongly condemns the conduct of Mr. Vijay, the organisers of the event and the members of the political party for fleeing from the scene of occurrence immediately after mishaps.”
The Court also pointed out that TVK had not issued any official statement of responsibility or remorse, which, in its view, reflected a disregard for human life and public accountability.
Although Vijay later released a video statement on September 30 via X (formerly Twitter), expressing that he was “deeply pained” by the incident and urging the State not to “take vengeance” on TVK cadres, the Court found this insufficient.
FIR Controversy: Missing Criminal Cases and State Failure
Another serious issue raised by the Court was the failure of the Tamil Nadu police to register FIRs related to accidents that occurred in connection with the stampede.
The Court referred to video footage circulating on social media that allegedly showed two motorcycles colliding with a bus carrying Vijay. Despite visible evidence, the police had not registered any First Information Report (FIR) for the alleged hit-and-run incidents.
The Court observed:
“Even in the absence of a formal complaint from the aggrieved parties, it is the duty of the State to register a suo motu FIR and ensure that the accused face trial in accordance with law.”
This pointed criticism highlighted a *failure in law enforcement duties, raising concerns about the independence and effectiveness of the ongoing state investigation.
SIT Probe Ordered by Madras High Court
Given the gravity of the incident and the perceived inadequacy of the state’s probe, the Madras High Court went beyond the relief sought in the petition and ordered the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The SIT will be headed by Asra Garg (IPS), Inspector General of Police (North Zone). Other members include:
- Vimala (IPS), Superintendent of Police, Namakkal, and
- Shyamaladevi, Superintendent of Police, CSCID.
Justice Senthilkumar noted that additional members could be added by the team head if required.
The Court directed:
- All available CCTV footage from the site and from inside/outside the bus carrying Vijay must be seized.
- The bus involved in the alleged hit-and-run incident must also be seized.
- The State Government must extend full cooperation and provide all necessary facilities for the SIT to conduct a fair investigation.
The Court justified its intervention, saying:
“Though the prayer in the present writ petition is limited, the scope of the writ petition has been widened due to the extraordinary circumstances, which warrant extraordinary measures. This Court cannot close its eyes, remain a mute spectator, and shrink from its constitutional responsibilities.”
The Petitioner’s Demand
The petition was filed by PH Dinesh, who sought a direction to implement a safety protocol for political roadshows and rallies.
While the initial prayer was narrow, the Court expanded the scope of the writ petition, citing the extraordinary loss of lives and the urgent need for accountability and systemic reforms.
Political Implications
This case has significant political ramifications in Tamil Nadu. Vijay, one of the most popular actors in the Tamil film industry, had launched TVK with much fanfare, aiming to establish himself as a credible political alternative in the state.
However, the Karur tragedy and the High Court’s strong remarks may prove damaging for his political credibility. The Court’s condemnation of Vijay’s conduct, coupled with its finding that he and TVK leaders “abandoned their cadres and fans”, could be used by political rivals to question his leadership and accountability.
Key Takeaways from the Judgment
- Accountability of Political Leaders: The judgment reinforces that organisers of political events cannot escape responsibility when tragedies occur.
- Judicial Oversight: The Madras High Court widened the scope of the case, showcasing how courts step in when state authorities fail in their constitutional duties.
- SIT as an Extraordinary Measure: Ordering a Special Investigation Team indicates the Court’s lack of trust in the independence of the state investigation.
- Victims’ Rights and State Responsibility: The Court emphasised that FIRs must be registered even without formal complaints, upholding the duty of the State to protect citizens.
- Political Consequences for Vijay and TVK: This case could shape public perception of Vijay’s emerging political career.
Conclusion
The Madras High Court’s order in the Karur stampede case is a powerful reminder that public accountability cannot be compromised, whether by political leaders or by the State. By condemning Vijay and TVK leaders for fleeing the site, and pulling up the State for its failure to register FIRs, the Court has underlined the primacy of constitutional responsibility over political expediency.
The Court’s decision to constitute an SIT led by senior IPS officers signals that justice for the victims and their families will not be left to a compromised investigation.
As Tamil Nadu watches closely, this case is likely to remain a turning point in Vijay’s political journey and a test of governance standards in the state. The coming weeks will reveal how the SIT proceeds and whether political accountability will translate into legal consequences.
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