Karur stampede: Crowd mismanagement, lack of amenities worsened the tragedy, say locals

Residents recount tragic stampede at actor Vijay's rally, blaming poor planning, lack of amenities, and police failure.

Others pointed to the absence of basic amenities. “There was no water, no shops open since morning. People fainted in the heat,” said G. Chitra. Residents also recalled children climbing electric posts and transformers to catch a glimpse of the actor, adding to the risk.

Some linked the tragedy to the timing. “Saturday evening is peak time in Karur, when textile workers receive their wages. The surge to see Vijay only added to the pressure,” said B. Balusamy.

Several criticised the police and the organisers. “Police are now everywhere, but at that time they did not save us. They have so many intelligence wings, yet they failed to predict this crowd. I saw bodies being carried in front of my eyes,” lamented Palanisamy of Velusamypuram.

Residents contrasted the rally with other political events. “Even the DMK held its Mupperum Vizha near the ring road, where there was space. Why bring such a crowd into a congested area?” asked K. Veeramani.