The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially called upon Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor-politician Vijay to appear for questioning in connection with the tragic Karur stampede case. The agency has asked him to present himself at its headquarters on January 12.
Probe Intensifies After Supreme Court Order
This move marks a significant step forward in the investigation into the stampede that occurred on September 27 during a political rally addressed by Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The CBI took over the probe from a state-constituted Special Investigation Team (SIT) following an order from the Supreme Court. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least 41 people and left over 60 others injured.
Officials stated that several office bearers of the TVK have already been interrogated by the central agency as part of the evidence-gathering process. The CBI has been meticulously collecting all relevant material related to the deadly event since assuming control of the investigation.
TVK's Submission and Allegations
Earlier, during the Supreme Court-monitored inquiry in Delhi, the TVK had submitted video evidence to the CBI. The party's leadership claimed this footage highlighted lapses by the Tamil Nadu state government and local police that allegedly contributed to the catastrophe.
After a final round of questioning, TVK joint general secretary C T R Nirmal Kumar addressed reporters. He explained that the party provided video evidence and detailed explanations pinpointing where the government erred and where police arrangements failed. Kumar asserted that their submission clearly showed how the stampede could have been prevented.
Furthermore, the TVK team raised concerns about irregularities in postmortem procedures following the incident. They also formally recorded details pertaining to the permits that were granted for the September rally.
Next Steps: Awaiting the Charge Sheet
The questioning of Vijay is seen as a pivotal moment in the probe. Based on his statement and the evidence compiled so far, the CBI will decide on filing a formal charge sheet in the case. The agency's findings will determine the future legal course of action and establish accountability for one of Tamil Nadu's most devastating recent tragedies.
The nation's eyes are now on the January 12 questioning, as the probe seeks to deliver justice for the victims and their families.
