TVK Chief Vijay Stands Firm on Police Role in Karur Tragedy During CBI Grilling
TVK president Vijay faced another round of intense questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi on Monday. The political leader spent nearly six hours at the agency's headquarters, where he consistently maintained his position about the causes of the Karur rally stampede.
Documents Submitted and Questions Answered
Vijay appeared before a deputy superintendent of police-rank officer during the session. He submitted several important documents requested by investigators. These included the formal application filed by TVK seeking permission for the September 27, 2025 rally in Karur.
When CBI officials specifically asked whether police guidelines were properly followed during the event, Vijay gave a clear response. He stated unequivocally that his party had complied with all mandated conditions for organizing the public gathering.
Consistent Position on Stampede Causes
This marked Vijay's second appearance before the CBI in connection with the tragic incident. He had previously provided testimony on January 12, where he identified specific factors behind the chaos.
"Poor crowd management and insufficient police deployment triggered the unfortunate events at Karur," Vijay told investigators during both questioning sessions according to party sources. His position remained unchanged throughout Monday's interrogation.
Party leaders confirmed that the CBI has not asked Vijay to appear again for further questioning at this time. The TVK president returned to Chennai later in the day after completing his deposition.
Addressing Specific Allegations
Investigators pressed Vijay on why he continued his speech even as the situation began deteriorating at the rally. The TVK chief provided a detailed explanation to the probing officers.
Vijay stated that he stopped his address immediately upon realizing the gravity of the developing situation. However, he emphasized that the lack of adequate crowd-control measures remained the primary reason for the stampede that followed.
Political Reactions and Counterclaims
TVK joint general secretary C T R Nirmal Kumar strongly dismissed certain media reports circulating about the investigation. He labeled as "completely baseless" any suggestions that Vijay's name might appear in a chargesheet related to the incident.
Nirmal Kumar also referenced allegations made by Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran. The BJP leader had claimed that former DMK minister V Senthil Balaji bore responsibility for the stampede.
"We demand a fair and impartial investigation that will ultimately bring to book those truly responsible for this tragedy," Nirmal Kumar stated, echoing the party's position on the matter.
Allegations of Political Pressure
Meanwhile, DMK spokesperson T K S Elangovan raised concerns about potential political motivations behind the investigation. He alleged that Vijay faced political pressure following his appearance before the CBI.
Elangovan accused the BJP-led Union government of misusing investigative agencies for political purposes. These comments reflect the ongoing political tensions surrounding the investigation into the Karur rally stampede.
The tragedy continues to generate significant political discussion in Tamil Nadu, with various parties offering differing perspectives on responsibility and appropriate investigative approaches.
