Karur [Tamil Nadu]: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-politician Vijay released his first video statement following the tragic Karur rally stampede, which claimed 41 lives and injured dozens. In the statement, Vijay expressed profound sorrow and addressed ongoing political controversies surrounding the incident.
Emotional message to the public
Vijay said, “I have not faced a painful situation like this in my life. My heart aches. Only pain in my heart. People came to see me in the campaign. I am always grateful to the love and affection people have on me. In order to ensure there should be no compromise on safety of people, I kept politics aside and chose a place that was safe for the people and requested the police department. But what should not have happened, happened.”
He added, “I am also a human. When so many were affected, how can I leave those people and come back? I didn’t go because I wanted to make sure no untoward incident happens again.”
Addressing scrutiny of party leaders
Vijay sought to defend his party members, insisting that neither he nor his organisers acted negligently. “We did not do anything wrong. But the party leaders, friends, and social media users are filing FIRs against them. CM sir, if you have an intention to take revenge, do anything to me. Do not touch them. I’ll either be home, or in my office. Do anything you want to me,” he said.
He also hinted at a political angle, questioning why the tragedy occurred in Karur despite the party campaigning in multiple districts. “We campaigned in five districts, so why did this happen in Karur? How did this occur? People know the truth and they are watching everything,” Vijay stated.
Faith in truth and public support
Vijay said that videos and social media clips from the spot revealed the truth. “When I saw people of Karur spill the truth, I felt as if the Almighty had descended on earth to speak the truth. I am confident that the truth will come out soon,” he said.
He also acknowledged the suffering of affected families. “All of us are affected at this time. I know that many families are suffering. I hope everyone gets well soon. I will meet all of you as soon as possible,” Vijay added.
Resolute on political journey
Concluding his statement, Vijay reaffirmed his commitment to continue his political journey. “Our political journey will continue with more strength and more fearlessness. At this time, I would like to thank the politicians, party members, leaders, and everyone who spoke up for me,” he said.
The stampede at the Karur rally has drawn widespread attention from both political leaders and the public, raising questions about crowd safety and event management at political gatherings in Tamil Nadu.