CBI – Actor Vijay Asked to Appear in Delhi for Karur Stampede Probe
CBI – The Central Bureau of Investigation has asked actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay to appear before the agency on March 15 in connection with the Karur stampede case. Officials confirmed on Tuesday that the questioning will take place at the agency’s headquarters in New Delhi as part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic incident that occurred during a political rally last year.
The probe agency had earlier questioned the actor twice in January as investigators attempted to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the deadly crowd crush in Karur, Tamil Nadu.
Background of the Karur Rally Tragedy
The stampede occurred on September 27, 2025, during a public rally attended by Vijay in Karur district. According to official figures, the incident resulted in the deaths of 41 people and left more than 60 others injured. The gathering had attracted a large crowd of supporters, leading to severe congestion at the venue.
Initial investigations were carried out by a Special Investigation Team constituted by the state authorities. However, the matter later reached the Supreme Court, which ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation to take over the case to ensure an independent and transparent probe.
The central agency has since been collecting statements, reviewing event arrangements, and examining the circumstances that contributed to the crowd surge.
Previous Summons and Request for Postponement
Investigators had initially summoned Vijay to appear before them on March 9. Officials said the actor requested additional time, asking that the questioning be postponed by about two weeks due to political commitments.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Vijay also asked the agency if the questioning could be conducted in Chennai or another location in Tamil Nadu. He reportedly cited his campaign schedule and preparations for the upcoming state assembly elections as the reason for seeking a change of venue.
The CBI, however, has now asked him to appear in person in Delhi on March 15.
Summons Issued to DMK MLA Senthil Balaji
Apart from Vijay, the agency has also issued a notice to DMK legislator Senthil Balaji from Karur. He has been asked to appear before investigators on March 17.
Balaji, who previously served as a minister in the Tamil Nadu government, addressed the development through a message posted on the social media platform X in Tamil. In the post, he stated that he intends to cooperate with the investigation and will present himself before the agency to clarify issues related to the Karur stampede incident.
Investigators are believed to be examining the roles of several individuals connected with the rally’s organization and crowd management arrangements.
Supreme Court Monitoring of Investigation
The investigation moved to the CBI after the Supreme Court intervened in October last year. The apex court directed the CBI director to assign a senior officer to lead the probe and ensure that the case is handled with complete independence.
In addition, the court formed a supervisory panel headed by former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi. The committee was tasked with overseeing the progress of the investigation and ensuring that all aspects of the case are examined thoroughly.
A bench of Justices J K Maheshwari and N V Anjaria had observed that the stampede had deeply affected citizens across the country. The judges noted that the tragedy raised serious concerns about public safety at large gatherings and highlighted the importance of safeguarding the rights of families who lost their loved ones.
The court emphasized that restoring public confidence in the criminal justice system was essential. According to the bench, an impartial and transparent investigation is necessary to ensure accountability and provide clarity regarding the events that led to the disaster.
Ongoing Evidence Collection
Since taking over the case, the CBI has been reviewing video recordings, witness testimonies, and logistical arrangements related to the rally. Officials say the questioning of key individuals is a routine part of the investigative process aimed at building a comprehensive understanding of what occurred on the day of the tragedy.
Authorities have indicated that further questioning of witnesses and organizers may take place as the probe continues.