The festive atmosphere surrounding a political rally held by the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) in Karur, Tamil Nadu, descended into tragedy following a fatal stampede. Reports indicate a significant loss of life, with one user claiming the casualty count to be as high as 31 people—including six children, sixteen women, and nine men. The incident has not only shocked the state but has also become a national talking point, with politicians across the spectrum, including the President and Vice-President of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing their condolences.
Vijay’s Digital Condolence vs. Physical Presence
TVK leader and actor Vijay posted a message on social media (X/formerly Twitter) shortly after the incident. He expressed profound sorrow, stating, “My heart is shattered; I am enduring a sorrow that is unbearable and unspeakable in words.” He extended his deep condolences to the bereaved families of his “dear brothers and sisters” who lost their lives in Karur and offered prayers for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital. However, this digital display of grief has been starkly contrasted with his actions on the ground. Multiple reports and social media comments suggest that following the tragedy, Vijay immediately left the site and flew back to Chennai without a public statement, a decision that has drawn intense scrutiny and fierce criticism from political rivals and the public.
One commentator noted that while not visiting the hospital might be understandable due to the potential for a massive crowd to cause further disruption, “Vijay should have spoken to the press and passed on his condolences, but him avoiding the press and returning to Chennai shows his inexperience and panic in handling the situation.” Another post criticized the leader for not cancelling his ongoing political campaign immediately to tend to the affected, suggesting that if he truly cared for his party members, he would have prioritized aid over publicity.
Criticism of Party Preparedness and Infrastructure
The incident has also raised serious questions about the TVK’s political infrastructure and preparedness for large-scale events. Critics argue that the tragedy occurred at the very campaign meeting organized by Vijay’s party, making the leadership directly accountable.
One user lamented the situation, stating, “This is what happens when people elect a leader purely based on their fandom.” Another commentator harshly critiqued the organizational structure, saying, “There is no such party structure beyond that. It is just a crowd of movie fans and there is no action plan.” The implication is that the nascent political entity may lack the seasoned organizational backbone necessary to manage the logistics and safety of massive public gatherings, particularly during a crisis.
In contrast, other political entities reportedly dispatched their district-level functionaries and ministers to the site to assist the affected families. The opposition party, for instance, reportedly directed its district secretaries to aid the people, highlighting a perceived failure of the TVK to mobilize its members for immediate relief efforts. The core of the criticism lies in the perception that the leader, @actorvijay, prioritized an escape by plane rather than providing a tangible response to the fatalities. Many believe that the TVK, still in its early stages as a political party, is being exposed as little more than a “screen-light fan club” lacking a serious operational framework or crisis management capability. The tragedy has tragically become a major test for Vijay’s leadership and the genuine political commitment of the TVK, a test many observers believe the party has failed in its initial hours.