Stampede tragedy in southern India leaves dozens dead
At least 36 people have died and more than 50 others were injured at a political rally by Indian Tamil actor Vijay.
According to the Guardian, the Health Department of Tamil Nadu state (southern India) announced on September 27 that at least 36 people were killed and more than 50 injured during a campaign event of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Party - a party founded by Tamil actor Vijay.
"Among the dead were eight children and 16 women. The injured are in stable condition," a local health official said.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said the stampede occurred on the evening of September 27, when a large number of supporters thronged the barricades to catch a glimpse of Vijay. Stalin visited the scene to direct the procession and also visited the victims and their families. Tamil Nadu officials also asked private hospitals not to charge for treatment of those injured in the incident.
"The state government will provide Rs 1 million to the families of each deceased victim, and has set up a committee to investigate the tragedy," Mr. Stalin said.
According to local media, severe overcrowding was blamed for the stampede. The TVK party had expected only 30,000 people to attend the rally when it applied for a permit, but the actual attendance was closer to 60,000.
"This is a sad incident. My condolences to the families of the victims and hope they will be strong to overcome this difficult time," Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.
