Karur stampede case: Actor and TVK chief Vijay questioned by CBI for six hours, may be called again

Actor and TVK chief Thalapathy Vijay appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in New Delhi on Monday, January 12, in connection with the Karur stampede case. The central agency had issued a notice to Vijay last week, asking him to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

Vijay reached the CBI headquarters at around 11.29 am and was questioned for nearly six hours by officials of the agency’s anti-corruption unit. He left the premises at approximately 6.15 pm. Sources said the CBI has sought further clarification on certain aspects and may summon the actor again. While the agency had initially asked him to appear on January 13, Vijay requested an alternative date, citing Pongal.

About the Karur Stampede

The stampede occurred on September 27, 2025, during a political rally organised by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in Karur, about 400 km from Chennai. The event drew a massive crowd, but chaos broke out at the venue, leading to the deaths of 41 people and injuries to over 60 others. The tragedy triggered widespread outrage and raised serious questions about crowd management and safety arrangements.

CBI Probe and Supreme Court’s Intervention

Acting on directions from the Supreme Court of India, the CBI took over the probe on October 26. The apex court noted that statements by senior Tamil Nadu police officials defending their subordinates after the incident had eroded public confidence, stressing the need for an “impartial, independent and unbiased” investigation.

CBI officials said several TVK office-bearers and event organisers have already been questioned. Investigators are examining eyewitness accounts, video footage, crowd-control measures and possible organisational lapses. A chargesheet is expected after evidence collection and verification are completed.

Political Reactions and Vijay’s Response

The questioning of Vijay has reignited political debate in Tamil Nadu, with some leaders questioning why witnesses were summoned to Delhi instead of Chennai. Following the tragedy, Vijay had issued a public apology, expressing grief and condolences to the victims’ families. He has not commented publicly on the latest round of CBI questioning and remains focused on his upcoming film Jana Nayagan.