BJP’s Khushbu Sundar Alleges ‘Planned’ Stampede at Vijay Rally in Karur

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Oct 5, 2025: Days after a deadly stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, that claimed 41 lives, BJP leader Khushbu Sundar on Saturday alleged that the incident was “planned” and “created.” She also criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and the ruling DMK for failing to provide adequate space for the rally.

“The people of Tamil Nadu believe there was complete negligence. It seems like a created calamity because the DMK knew the kind of crowd Vijay would draw, yet proper arrangements were not made. MK Stalin remains silent while 41 people lost their lives. He should speak now,” Sundar said.

The stampede occurred on September 27 during Vijay’s campaign event in Karur, injuring at least 60 people. Eyewitnesses said a power outage, narrow venue space, and surging crowds contributed to the tragedy. Vijay, scheduled to arrive at 12 pm, reached the venue around 7 pm, further swelling the crowd. People reportedly climbed trees, rooftops, and power lines, forcing authorities to cut electricity to prevent electrocution. The police later used lathi charges to disperse the crowd, a move Sundar questioned, calling it suspicious.

Some opposition leaders have labelled Vijay as the BJP’s “B-team.” Responding, senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan said, “I don’t know about ‘A-team’ or ‘B-team’. We are the ‘P-team’—the people’s team.”

Sources added that the BJP had reached out to Vijay’s party days after the stampede, suggesting the saffron party may aim to leverage his massive fan base ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections.