Target me, not TVK cadre: Vijay tells T.N. CM Stalin in video statement after Karur stampede

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay on Tuesday (September 30, 2025) said he had never in his life experienced a situation as painful as the one in Karur, where 41 people died in a stampede during his rally on September 27. He also stated that if Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wished to take “revenge”, it should be directed at him and not at members of his party.

In a video posted on social media, Mr. Vijay said his “heart is heavy with pain” following the incident. “Throughout my State-wide tour, people have come to see me out of love and affection. I am always grateful for that,” he said, adding that public safety had been the top priority during the tour. “Setting aside political reasons, that is why we [TVK] focused on selecting venues that were safe for the public, and sought permission from the police,” he added.

‘Left venue to avoid further incidents’

“What happened should not have happened,” Mr. Vijay said. “As a human being, how could I leave the place when so many were affected? I chose not to go there immediately only to avoid the risk of any further unforeseen incidents.”

He expressed his “deepest sympathies” to those who lost loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to those undergoing treatment. “I hope they return home soon. I will meet them all shortly,” he said, also thanking political leaders and party functionaries who, he said, understood the situation and extended their support.

Mr. Vijay said he had campaigned in five districts without any such incident occurring. “Why and how did it happen only in Karur? People know the truth; they have seen everything. The truth will come out soon,” he said. He added that the rally was held at a location assigned to the party and that they had followed the required procedures. “We did nothing else. FIRs have been filed against our party members, and some have been arrested. CM [Stalin] sir, if you want to take revenge, take it against me, not them. I will be at home or in the office,” he said, adding that the TVK’s political journey would continue, “stronger and braver than ever.”