An incident during a political rally in Tamil Nadu, India, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people due to a crush. The event took place in Karur district, where tens of thousands of attendees gathered. Chaos erupted as Vijay was delivering his speech, causing a surge in the crowd. Following the tragedy, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party faced criticism, with accusations from opposition members asserting that insufficient police were deployed to manage the crowd.
Authorities stated that the rally’s organizers underestimated the expected turnout and failed to implement adequate safety measures. This event raises questions about preparedness and crowd management at such gatherings.
Vijay, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, has enjoyed enduring popularity for decades. His career includes numerous successful films and he recently transitioned into politics, founding his party last year. This exploration of political ambitions among film stars is not uncommon in southern India, where celebrity status can influence voter appeal.
Vijay’s foray into politics aligns with a historical pattern in which actors like MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa have also made significant political impacts after their cinematic careers. However, not all actors have found success in politics; some have struggled to translate stardom into electoral victories, as seen with Kamal Haasan.
In the aftermath of the rally, discussions have emerged regarding accountability. The government has initiated a one-member commission of inquiry into the incident, with findings expected within two months. Meanwhile, TVK has sought legal action for what they describe as a denial of a safer event venue. There are calls for action, including potential legal consequences for Vijay, though he maintains significant popular support.
He has publicly expressed his sorrow over the incident and promised financial assistance to victims’ families, but his absence from the hospital where victims were taken has drawn criticism. The implications of this tragedy on Vijay’s political future and public image remain uncertain.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62lj9x5y60o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss