In brief
At least 36 individuals, including children, lost their lives and over 50 were injured in a tragic crush at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, attended by actor-turned-politician Vijay. The incident occurred as thousands gathered for the delayed event in Karur district, prompting an outpouring of condolences. State officials reported the death toll, which includes women and children, leading to government promises of compensation and investigations into the matter. This incident recalls similar tragedies in India, sparking discussions on crowd safety measures.
At least 36 people have died, including children, in a crush at a political rally in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, state officials say.
Tens of thousands of people had gathered on Saturday at a campaign event for actor-turned-politician Vijay, in the southern Karur district.
It was delayed by several hours, local media reported. Images broadcast on television showed people fainting in the packed crowds.
Politician Senthil Balaji spoke to reporters outside a local hospital to confirm the deaths, and added that more than 50 other people had been injured.
The death toll includes at least 16 women, nine men, and six children, state health minister Ma Subramanian told local media.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said some people were taken to hospital after fainting in the crush. Extra assistance has been requested from doctors working in nearby districts, he added.
Compensation of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400) will be provided to the families of the deceased, Stalin added, and there will be an inquiry into the incident.
In an online statement, Vijay sent his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of those who died, and prayers for a speedy recovery to those in hospital.
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the incident was unfortunate and deeply saddening, in a post on X.
Deadly crushes are not uncommon in India, and there have been several similarly tragic incidents this year alone, including at the famous Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium.
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