Supreme Court Mandates CBI Probe into Karur Stampede Tragedy

The Supreme Court has ordered a CBI investigation into the Karur stampede during actor Vijay's rally, appointing Justice Ajay Rastogi to monitor it. It criticized the Madras High Court for prematurely addressing petitions, and Vijay’s party seeks an independent probe, alleging a possible conspiracy.

In a decisive move, the Supreme Court on Monday mandated a CBI investigation into the tragic Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives during a rally by actor-politician Vijay. The apex court appointed former judge Justice Ajay Rastogi to oversee the probe, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation.

In addition, the court criticized a Madras High Court judge, Justice N Senthilkumar, for taking up petitions related to the September 27 tragedy without orders from the chief justice. These petitions demanded a special investigation but lacked comprehensive input or participation from Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party.

Arguments from the TVK highlighted potential bias in the police-led investigation. The plea alleged the possibility of conspiracy and objected to criticism directed at the party for its actions post-event. Vijay's rally, which attracted 27,000 attendees, faced delays that allegedly contributed to the catastrophic outcome.