The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear a petition on October 10, 2025, challenging the Madras High Court’s decision to deny a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragic stampede that occurred on September 27 during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu.
The incident, which took place in Velusamypuram, claimed 41 lives and left over 60 others injured.
A bench comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran took note of the appeal filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Uma Anandan, who had sought a CBI investigation into the stampede.
The petitioner’s counsel pointed out that a single judge of the Madras High Court had expressed dissatisfaction with the initial probe, yet the plea for a CBI inquiry had been dismissed.
The Supreme Court bench directed that the matter be listed for hearing on Friday, October 10.
Earlier, on October 3, the Madras High Court had constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Inspector General of Police Asra Garg to investigate the stampede. The court criticized both the rally organizers and local authorities for failing to implement adequate crowd-control measures. According to official records, the rally drew nearly 27,000 participants, nearly three times the expected attendance of 10,000.
The actor’s delayed arrival, reportedly by over seven hours, was also cited as a factor that contributed to the chaos.
The incident has sparked significant political debate, with opposition leaders calling for accountability from the state government.
A fact-finding delegation from the National Democratic Alliance, including several prominent MPs, visited the site and attributed the tragedy to administrative lapses. The delegation criticized both the authorities and event organizers for insufficient safety protocols and inadequate crowd management.
In contrast, Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan expressed support for the police and state administration, noting that denying permission for an event at the Lighthouse Corner venue in Karur had prevented an even larger disaster. He emphasized the importance of introspection rather than political blame and commended the swift action of local officials during the incident.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the plea for a CBI investigation, the SIT continues its comprehensive inquiry under the supervision of IG Asra Garg. The team is expected to submit periodic reports to the court, examining the circumstances that led to the tragedy. The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision could play a pivotal role in determining the course of the investigation and ensuring accountability in this devastating case.
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