The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned Vijay, head of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), for questioning in connection with the Karur stampede case. Vijay is scheduled to appear on March 15, 2026, as the probe continues into crowd management, organisational lapses, and delays during the political rally that turned tragic.
Vijay had earlier sought a 15-day extension and requested the questioning be arranged in Chennai or nearby areas. While the CBI is considering his request, a fresh summons has been issued, requiring his presence on March 15.
The case was transferred from a state-level Special Investigation Team to the CBI following a Supreme Court directive, highlighting the need for an independent investigation. The stampede occurred at a TVK political event, with the crowd reportedly swelling from 10,000 to 30,000 attendees.
Investigators are examining multiple aspects of the rally are as follows
Timeline discrepancies, including a seven-hour delay and Vijay’s actual arrival time.
Coordination between TVK organisers, party workers, and local authorities.
Crowd management measures such as entry-exit points and drinking water facilities.
Movement of Vijay’s modified caravan through dense crowds.
Documents and permissions related to the event, including organisational responsibility.
In addition to Vijay, the CBI summoned MLA Karur V Senthil Balaji, but he neither received the notice at his office or residence nor responded to email notifications.
The investigation continues to focus on whether proper risk assessments were conducted and how delays or organisational lapses contributed to the tragic outcome.
