In a significant development, the Supreme Court has mandated a comprehensive investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the tragic Karur stampede. The incident, which claimed the lives of at least forty individuals, took place on September 27 during a rally led by actor-politician Vijay.
A bench comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and NV Anjaria directed the establishment of a three-member committee, to be overseen by former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi, to monitor the CBI’s inquiry. This decision came after the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party founded by Vijay, appealed the Madras High Court’s earlier order for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
During the proceedings, the Supreme Court had questioned the High Court’s directive to form an SIT, raising concerns about the procedural aspects. Justice Maheshwari specifically noted the unusual situation where a single bench proceeded with the matter while a division bench was already seized of it, stating, “We are unable to understand how this order was passed?”
The Tamil Nadu government clarified that the SIT was a High Court initiative, with no state-appointed names suggested. They asserted that the officers selected for the probe were known for their integrity and independence.
Details of the Karur Stampede
The stampede occurred during a public rally on September 27, which saw an unexpectedly large crowd, attributed to poor crowd management. An FIR was filed against TVK officials, including the Karur district secretary Madhiazhagan and general secretary Bussy Anand, under sections pertaining to culpable homicide and endangering life.
Reports indicate that while permission was sought for 10,000 attendees, the actual crowd swelled to nearly 25,000. Police investigations highlighted a lack of essential facilities, such as drinking water, and non-compliance with the conditions set for the rally’s permission by the organizing party.