Karur Stampede: CBI Quizzes DMK Leader Senthil Balaji Over 41 Deaths

(MENAFN- AsiaNet News)

Former Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK leader Senthil Balaji returned to Chennai after appearing before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Delhi regarding the Karur incident in which 41 people lost their lives. The CBI had been investigating the tragedy that killed around 40 people during a Vijay rally in Karur. The agency has been questioning several individuals, including members of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by Vijay.

Balaji Responds After Questioning

Senthil Balaji, speaking to reporters at Chennai Airport, said he answered questions related to the tragic incident that occurred in Karur on September 27. “I responded to the questions raised about the unfortunate event. I have also provided answers to certain aspects before the inquiry commission. These details cannot be disclosed publicly,” he told reporters at the airport.

He added that the questioning lasted from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, though he was unsure of the exact number of questions asked. Balaji clarified that he did not see the CBI summons as “pressure,” adding, “I responded to queries based on certain suspicions.” Regarding political developments, he said there was no need to comment on others’ opinions and emphasized that the party is focused on election work under the guidance of DMK President K. He further expressed confidence that people are ready to vote for the DMK to form the government for a second consecutive term in the 2026 Assembly elections.

CBI’s Investigation into Stampede

Earlier, the CBI summoned MLA Karur V Senthil Balaji in connection with the Karur stampede case, but he neither received the notice at his residence nor his office, nor responded to the email, sources said. The CBI took over the investigation from the Tamil Nadu Police last year following a Supreme Court order. Since then, the agency has been examining the circumstances surrounding the stampede at a political event in Karur.

Probe Focuses on Delays and Crowd Control

One of the main issues under investigation is the alleged seven-hour delay at the venue. Investigators are examining the discrepancy between the scheduled start time of the program and Vijay’s actual arrival, and whether the delay contributed to the crowd swelling and loss of control, ultimately leading to at least 40 deaths and injuries to many others.

The agency is also questioning whether party workers on the ground coordinated adequately with local police and district officials, as the crowd reportedly grew from an estimated 10,000 to around 30,000 people. Delays in Vijay’s movement and that of his party workers are being examined to assess their impact on crowd dynamics. Investigators are reviewing documents related to permissions for the event and seeking clarity on who organized the Karur program. Within the party, the CBI is examining the organizational structure to determine responsibility for planning and execution, including who decided to hold the event in Karur and when Vijay was informed.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls Announced

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Sunday that Tamil Nadu will go to polls in a single phase on April 23, with vote counting scheduled for May 4. The Model Code of Conduct comes into effect immediately, initiating the election process for the 234-member State Assembly, whose current term ends on May 10, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)