CBI Intensifies Probe into Karur Stampede, Summons TVK Chief Vijay

The Central Bureau of Investigation has intensified its probe into the Karur stampede case by summoning Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay for questioning on March 15. The investigation, ordered by the Supreme Court, is examining crowd management failures, party coordination, and event planning discrepancies.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the Karur stampede case, summoning Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay for questioning on March 15. This development follows an earlier request by Vijay for a 15-day extension and a change of venue to Chennai or a nearby location.

The Supreme Court's order to transfer the case from a state-level Special Investigation Team to the CBI was motivated by the need for an independent and impartial investigation. According to sources, the CBI is considering Vijay's requests but has yet to make a final decision while preparing to issue a fresh summons.

The CBI's investigation is scrutinizing various aspects of the rally, focusing on crowd management, the timeline of Vijay's arrival, and coordination between party organizers and local authorities. The agency is also examining the organizational structure within the party to determine who was responsible for planning and executing the event in Karur.

A key focus of the investigation is the alleged seven-hour delay at the venue, which may have contributed to crowd swelling and loss of control. The CBI is examining whether basic arrangements like drinking water facilities and designated entry and exit points were provided for the crowd of up to 30,000 people.

In a related development, the CBI summoned MLA Karur V Senthil Balaji, although he did not respond to the notice sent to his residence and office. The agency continues to scrutinize the movement of Vijay's modified caravan through the gathering and the sequence of events leading to and following the stampede.

(With inputs from agencies.)