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The devastating Karur rally organized by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay continues to uncover sorrowful
incidents. On Saturday, during the rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, a stampede erupted, resulting in the deaths of at least 39 individuals and injuring 95 more. A newly released video from the event, captured just prior to the stampede, features Vijay appealing to his supporters and police officials to locate a missing child amidst the turmoil.
Vijay's plea for assistance goes viral
In the footage shared on X (formerly Twitter) by PTI, Vijay is seen addressing a vast crowd from atop a caravan. The images depict an ambulance struggling to navigate through the densely packed audience, highlighting the overwhelming number of attendees.
During his speech, Vijay was interrupted by a supporter who informed him that a young girl was unaccounted for. He quickly took to the microphone and made a heartfelt request to those present. “A 9-year-old girl is missing. Brothers, please help find her. Her name is Ashmika. Police, sir, please assist, sir,” he stated, clearly distressed.
He then seemed to conclude his speech prematurely, expressing gratitude to the crowd for their presence and assuring them of his party's impending success before stepping down. The video has rapidly gained traction on social media.
Vijay pledges support for the families of the deceased and the injured
In the wake of the tragedy, Vijay conveyed his profound sorrow on X, describing it as an “irreparable loss.” He announced financial support for the families of the victims, stating: “This is truly an irreparable loss for us. Regardless of who offers comforting words, the absence of our loved ones is unbearable. Nevertheless, as a member of your family, I plan to provide 20 lakh rupees to each family that has lost a loved one and 2 lakh rupees to those who are injured and undergoing treatment. This amount, of course, pales in comparison to such a loss. Still, at this moment, it is my responsibility as someone who belongs to your family to stand with you, my dear ones, with a heavy heart.”
The actor and his party have also approached the Madras High Court, requesting an independent investigation into the stampede.
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