Authorities in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu have confirmed that at least 36 individuals, including children, have died in a crush at a political rally.
The incident occurred Saturday in the Karur district, where tens of thousands had gathered for a campaign event featuring actor and politician Vijay.
Local media sources report that the event experienced significant delays. Television broadcasts depicted scenes of individuals collapsing amidst the densely packed crowds.
Speaking to reporters outside a local medical facility, politician Senthil Balaji verified the fatalities and indicated that over 50 additional individuals sustained injuries.
State Health Minister Ma Subramanian informed local news outlets that the deceased include at least 16 women, nine men, and six children.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin stated that a number of attendees were hospitalized after fainting due to the crush. He added that additional support has been requested from medical professionals in neighboring districts.
Chief Minister Stalin announced that the families of the deceased will receive compensation of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400), and that an inquiry into the incident will be conducted.
One man, whose family members attended the event, spoke to Indian news agency ANI outside a hospital.
“My brother’s two children were there. Two boys. The elder one passed away, the younger one is missing. My relatives, my sister-in-law, is in the ICU. What should I do?” he said.
Vijay released an online statement expressing his profound sorrow, stating that his heart was “broken” and he was in “unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow.”
He conveyed his “deepest sympathies and condolences” to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the “speedy recovery” of those hospitalized.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “unfortunate” and “deeply saddening” in a post on X.
Deadly crushes are, unfortunately, not uncommon in India, with several similar tragedies occurring this year, including events at the Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium.
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