By Arpita Ghosh

Copyright timesnownews

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of at least 39 people in a stampede at a political rally addressed by actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay in Karur. Speaking to reporters, Stalin said such a tragedy was unprecedented in the state’s political history. “So far, 39 people have died. In the history of our state, never has such a large number of people lost their lives in a program organized by a political party. Such a tragedy should never happen in the future,” he said. The incident took place on Saturday evening when a large crowd gathered for the rally. Dozens were crushed in the chaos, officials said. Stalin said 51 others were being treated in intensive care units. With a “heavy heart”, he announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims and Rs one lakh to those injured. He also ordered a one-member judicial inquiry commission led by retired High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan to investigate the cause of the stampede. “I do not wish to say anything with a political motive. Once the truth is revealed through the inquiry commission, strict action will definitely be taken,” Stalin said. The chief minister flew to Tiruchirappalli late Saturday and travelled by road to Karur, where he visited the Government Medical College and Hospital to meet the injured and console families of the dead. He described the loss of lives, including children and women, as “irreparable”. “These priceless lives lost have shaken all our hearts,” he said in a statement. “I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families who have suffered this irreparable loss. I have directed that all those admitted to hospitals for treatment must receive the best possible medical care,” he said. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin also expressed grief in a message on X, formerly Twitter. “The reports of lives lost due to being trapped in a crowd in Karur are causing immense sorrow,” he wrote. “Those whose health has deteriorated are being provided immediate treatment at Karur Government Hospital, as per the orders of the Honourable Chief Minister.” For all the latest news and india news, visit Times Now to get live updates and breaking news around the world.