In the wake of the Karur rally stampede that claimed 41 lives, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced plans to introduce strict safety rules for political rallies and public gatherings.
The announcement came in a video message on Monday, days after the tragedy at actor-politician Vijay’s rally that left the state in shock. Stalin said a comprehensive framework would be prepared once the Justice Aruna Jagadeesan (retd) Commission of Inquiry submits its report.
Stalin underscored that it was the collective duty of political parties and organisations to ensure that such disasters never recur. “Once the Commission’s report is received, consultations will be held with all stakeholders to draw up rules and guidelines,” he said.
The Chief Minister appealed for restraint as unverified claims and fake news circulated online. He reminded citizens that no political leader would wish for such a loss of lives, adding: “Regardless of party lines, they are Tamils to me.”
Calling the stampede “major and unprecedented,” Stalin urged parties to put human life before politics. He appealed to leaders and citizens alike to set aside differences and prioritise people’s welfare and safety.
He also recalled his personal visit to Karur soon after the tragedy. “Even after issuing instructions to the district administration, I could not remain at home. My heart was heavy; I had to go there personally,” he said.
The Tamil Nadu government has announced ₹10 lakh solatium to the families of the deceased and is bearing the medical expenses of the injured. Future measures, Stalin added, would be guided by the Inquiry Commission’s findings.
Positioning Tamil Nadu as a progressive state, Stalin stressed that the government will work to ensure that public events are safe and well-regulated, preventing repeats of the Karur disaster.
