29, including kids, killed in stampede at actor Vijay’s rally in Tamil Nadu

At least 29 persons, including children, were killed and more than 45 injured in a stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally here on Saturday, said Karnataka Health Minister Ma Subramanian.

Over 30 people fainted and were rushed in ambulances to hospitals, officials said. “Information from Karur is worrisome,” Chief Minister MK Stalin said after the hospitalisation of several people.

Even as Vijay was addressing the massive gathering from atop his campaign vehicle, he halted his speech mid-way when many workers raised alarm after noticing that people were fainting and falling down.

Many who fainted were waiting for hours together to see Vijay, and it included children.

Vijay himself requested a way for the ambulance and he threw water bottles from atop his campaign vehicle and also announced that a child had gone missing. He also urged police to come forward to help.

While those who fainted were rushed to hospitals, Vijay continued his speech. However, he ended it soon and abruptly sensing the abnormal stampede-like situation at a section of the pretty huge gathering.

The CM said, “news from Karur is worrying”. He said he has instructed ministers Ma Subramanian, Anbil Mahesh, and the District Collector to provide immediate support to the affected people.