Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay has issued his first public response to the deadly stampede at his political rally in Karur, which claimed 38 lives and left dozens injured. In a heartfelt post shared late Saturday night, the actor-turned-politician said, “My heart is shattered. I am devastated by the loss of lives. I will never forget this pain.”
இதயம் நொறுங்கிப் போய் இருக்கிறேன்; தாங்க முடியாத, வார்த்தைகளால் சொல்ல முடியாத வேதனையிலும் துயரத்திலும் உழன்று கொண்டிருக்கிறேன்.
— TVK Vijay (@TVKVijayHQ) September 27, 2025
கரூரில் உயிரிழந்த எனதருமை சகோதர சகோதரிகளின் குடும்பங்களுக்கு என் ஆழ்ந்த அனுதாபங்களையும், இரங்கலையும் தெரிவித்துக்கொள்கிறேன். மருத்துவமனையில் சிகிச்சை…
The statement comes nearly 24 hours after the tragedy, which unfolded during a massive public gathering that far exceeded permitted crowd limits. Vijay had earlier left the venue without addressing the media, prompting criticism and concern over his silence. His emotional message now marks a turning point in the political fallout surrounding the incident.
Vijay added that he is in touch with authorities and pledged full cooperation with the judicial probe ordered by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. He also announced that TVK will provide ₹5 lakh in additional compensation to each victim’s family, supplementing the ₹10 lakh announced by the state government.
“I take moral responsibility. I will ensure our party never repeats such a lapse,” Vijay wrote.
Political reactions have continued to pour in. BJP’s K. Annamalai called the incident “gross negligence,” while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged party workers to assist in relief efforts. CM Stalin is expected to visit Karur on Sunday to meet survivors and oversee emergency response measures.
Civic groups have welcomed Vijay’s statement but called for institutional reforms in event planning and crowd control. The judicial probe will examine lapses in coordination, permissions, and emergency preparedness.