SIT chief probes TVK rally stampede in Karur

The SIT, headed by senior IPS officer Asra Garg, on Sunday conducted its probe into a stampede during TVK chief Vijay’s rally here on September 27, in which 41 people died and nearly 60 were injured.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed based on an October 3 order of the Madras High Court.

The SIT comprises 11 police officers, including two superintendents of police, among others, Garg said.

Earlier in the day, he visited the scene in Velusamypuram where the stampede took place.

Later, speaking to reporters, he said, “The honorable High Court has formed the Special Investigation Team (SIT). As you all see, we are carrying out the investigation today by visiting the scene (where the incident took place).” To a question, he said that apart from him, two superintendents of police, one additional SP, two deputy superintendents of police and five inspectors are part of the team.

“I cannot share any further details today,” he said during his brief interaction with the media.

Police have registered a case against the driver of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s campaign vehicle in connection with an accident that allegedly occurred while he was on his way to his Karur rally on September 27, where a stampede later left 41 dead and injured around 60 people.

According to police, Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) campaign bus has also been named in the FIR. The case concerns an incident during which several fans of the actor, traveling on motorbikes near the convoy to see him, allegedly had an accident involving the campaign vehicle.

A video showing the incident went viral on social media and was broadcast on several television channels, sparking widespread debate.