TVK Chief Vijay Summoned By CBI On January 19 For Karur Stampede Questioning

Actor-turned-politician Vijay has been summoned again by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Karur stampede case. Vijay on Tuesday was asked to appear before investigators on January 19 for further questioning.

The fresh summon comes a day after Vijay was grilled for several hours by the CBI over alleged lapses in crowd management and delays during a political gathering in Karur last year that left 41 people dead and more than 100 injured.

The stampede occurred on September 27, 2025, during a massive event organised by Vijay’s party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The incident triggered outrage and led to judicial scrutiny, following which the Supreme Court of India transferred the probe to the CBI in October.

Vijay had appeared before the CBI on Monday after being served a notice under Section 179 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). During that round of questioning, investigators focused on an alleged seven-hour delay at the venue, which is believed to have contributed to overcrowding and loss of control.

The agency questioned Vijay on whether party workers coordinated effectively with the local police and district administration as the crowd reportedly swelled from an estimated 10,000 people to nearly 30,000. Investigators also examined whether any risk assessment was carried out in advance and whether basic arrangements such as drinking water, entry points and exit routes were put in place.

Vijay told investigators that neither he nor his party functionaries were responsible for the incident and that he left the venue after sensing that his continued presence could worsen the situation.

Vijay was initially scheduled to appear again on January 14 but was granted exemption due to Pongal. He is now expected to face investigators on January 19.

The actor-politician has faced criticism for leaving the venue while the situation was still unfolding. Tamil Nadu Police have filed cases against TVK leaders for allegedly ignoring safety warnings.