MK Stalin on Karur stampede: ‘Do not politicise tragedy; victims are our Tamil brethren’

Stalin grieved the deaths in the tragedy on September 27 and urged people not to politicise the incident. He said in the message posted in Tamil that the victims should not be viewed as those belonging to a particular party but ought to be seen as fellow Tamils.

The stampede occurred at a rally by Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) founder Vijay in Karur. Following the tragedy, criminal cases were registered against lower ranked functionaries of TVK, Vijay’s name was left out of the cases.

“It was a tragedy that has never happened before; one that should not happen again. The scenes I saw when I went to the hospital in person are still in front of me. My heart is heavy due to the grief,” Stalin was quoted in the message translated by news agency PTI.

Stalin further pointed out that the state government has announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for each of the victims’ families.

‘Do Not Spread Rumours’

Referring to social media posts about the incident, Stalin cautioned: “Do not spread rumours; don’t slander on the social media about the tragedy in Karur. Everyone should behave responsibly.”

“I am watching the rumours and false news spread by some people on social media. No political party leader will ever want his workers or innocent civilians to die. In this incident, regardless of party affiliation, the deceased belong to me, they are our Tamil brethren,” he was further quoted as saying.

Acknowledging that the government is responsible for framing rules and regulations on the conduct of political parties and public organisations, Stalin said that the state machinery would take the necessary steps after analysing the inquiry commission’s report. He said all political parties and civil societies would be consulted before the rules are framed.

He said, “Human lives are above everything. I request everyone to put aside their political positions, policy conflicts, personal animosity and think for the welfare of the people. It is the duty of all of us to prevent such incidents from happening again.”

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