The Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has asked the Supreme Court to conduct an independent investigation into the Karur stampede that resulted in 41 deaths. They want this inquiry to be led by a former Supreme Court judge.
The party is contesting the Madras High Court’s decision that appointed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by senior IPS officer Asra Garg to look into the incident.
TVK goes to Supreme Court for stampede probe
In its petition, TVK argued that the High Court formed an SIT made up of state police officials even though it had previously questioned the police investigation and the authorities’ role in the matter. They claimed that the SIT biased against the party.
TVK pointed out that the court’s comments, that mentioned that party chief Vijay “fled from the scene” and that the party had not shown regret have already affected the investigation. The party also suggested that a planned conspiracy by troublemakers to disrupt its rally not dismissed.
Madras high court slams TVK leaders
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court criticized TVK leaders for how they managed the event. It questioned their accountability as organizers and noted how the state had been lenient toward Vijay. The court mentioned evidence, such as video clips, that indicated issues like a bus running over two-wheelers without stopping and controversial posts from party leader Aadhav Arjuna.
TVK propaganda secretary Arun Raj told reporters that they had emailed a permission letter for the rally to the DGP and would also deliver it in person. He noted that Vijay spoke to 33 families through video calls and assured them he would meet with them face-to-face soon.
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