Karur Stampede Case Update: CBI Issues Summons to TVK Founder Vijay for Questioning

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and actor Vijay for questioning on 12 January 2026. This order comes after the tragic stampede in Karur on 27 September 2025 that resulted in 41 deaths and over 60 injuries. Officials are investigating to clarify if the party leaders ignored safety protocols amidst attempts to show off their political power. This inquiry is a major turning point for the new political party.

Understanding the Karur Incident


The Supreme Court has moved this case to the CBI as the tragedy shocked the entire country. On the night of the stampede, about 30,000 people gathered at a venue meant for only 10,000. People were packed into a very small space for hours.

Witnesses say the crowd surged when supporters tried to reach Vijay’s car. He arrived seven hours late to the event. The CBI is investigating whether the party delayed his arrival on purpose to make the crowd look larger for the cameras. Officials are also probing into why there were no emergency exits or water stations arranged for the fans.

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What are the Legal Risks for Vijay in the Karur Stampede Case?


While the issue appears to be a political controversy between Vijay and the current government, the actor is at risk of getting charged with "criminal negligence." The CBI is using Section 125(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a law that punishes acts that put lives in danger. 

To prove a crime, the CBI must show that the organizers' choices directly caused the deaths. They are looking at three main things:

The 7-Hour Delay: If the delay was a trick to build a crowd, it could be seen as a crime.
Bad Planning: The stage did not have a "buffer zone" to hold the crowd back. This is a basic safety rule that was ignored.

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Blocking Help: Some reports say party supporters blocked ambulances during the panic.
If the CBI finds proof of these actions, the legal consequences could be very serious for the actor-turned-politician.

The meeting on 12 January will shape the future of the TVK party. It happens just before the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections. If the CBI files a formal case, Vijay might spend his time in court instead of campaigning. This tragedy is also changing how politics works in India. The Madras High Court has reportedly ordered strict rules for all public rallies to ensure that disasters like Karur never happen again.