Vijay gives six-hour statement to CBI in Karur stampede probe; TVK chief denies role

Actor-turned-politician Vijay was questioned by the CBI for six hours on Monday in connection with the deadly Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives and injured over 60 people.

According to reports, Vijay told the agency that neither his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), nor its functionaries were responsible for the tragedy. He added that he had left the venue at the time of the incident as he feared his presence could escalate the situation.

Earlier, TVK functionaries had taken a similar stance during their questioning. Their statements will now be analysed alongside police reports, which suggested that a delay in the actor’s arrival may have contributed to the chaos during the stampede.

Vijay reached Delhi by chartered flight at around 10.30 am and proceeded to the CBI headquarters, which was heavily secured for his visit. He appeared in response to a summons issued earlier in the month and completed all formalities before the questioning began.

The probe is being conducted by a team from the CBI’s Anti-Corruption Unit. Vijay was accompanied by TVK leaders Aadhav Arjuna and Nirmal Kumar during his visit.

The Karur stampede occurred on September 27, 2025, during a public event that drew a large crowd. Eyewitnesses reported that overcrowding and delayed arrangements contributed to the panic. The CBI is examining multiple angles, including the role of organisers and security arrangements, to determine the sequence of events that led to the incident.

Vijay’s appearance comes as part of a broader investigation into the tragedy. Officials have emphasised that statements from political figures, organisers, and police personnel will be carefully cross-checked to establish accountability.

The actor has maintained that his presence at the venue was intended to be brief and that he left to avoid any possible disturbances. The CBI’s ongoing probe seeks to clarify the circumstances surrounding the stampede and the responsibilities of all parties involved, including crowd management and event planning.