The chief of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Vijay, underwent questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday. The federal agency is probing the tragic stampede that occurred at a rally in Karur on September 27, 2025, an incident that resulted in the deaths of 41 individuals and left over 60 people injured.
Details of the CBI Interrogation
Vijay arrived at the CBI headquarters in New Delhi around 11:29 AM, having taken a charter flight from Chennai that departed at 7 AM. After completing initial formalities, he was taken to the Anti-Corruption unit team which is handling the investigation. The questioning session lasted for several hours, focusing on matters related to the organization of the rally where the deadly stampede took place. He departed from the CBI office at approximately 6:15 PM.
The agency had originally summoned him for Tuesday, but Vijay requested a change in date citing the Pongal festival. Officials stated that a fresh date for any further questioning would be scheduled later. In anticipation of a large gathering of his supporters, significant security arrangements were made. Multiple units of the Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces were deployed around the CBI office to prevent any protests or disruptions.
Background of the Case and Investigation
This high-profile case was transferred to the CBI from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Tamil Nadu Police following an order from the Supreme Court. The federal agency has been actively gathering evidence under the oversight of a three-member supervisory committee. This committee is headed by former judge Ajay Rastogi.
The CBI has already questioned former Tamil Nadu ADG (Law and Order) S Davidson Devasirvatham as part of its comprehensive probe into the circumstances that led to the catastrophic event. The investigation aims to determine the lapses in crowd management and safety protocols that resulted in the heavy loss of life.
Political Context and Future Implications
Vijay, a popular figure in Tamil Nadu with a massive following, launched the TVK party in February 2024. The party is gearing up for its first major electoral challenge in the upcoming state assembly elections, which are expected to be held in May. The developments in the CBI probe are being closely watched for their potential impact on the nascent party's political fortunes.
The questioning of a prominent political leader by a federal agency marks a critical phase in the quest for accountability for the Karur tragedy. The findings of the CBI investigation are likely to have significant legal and political repercussions in Tamil Nadu.
