Madras High Court condemns Vijay and TVK leaders for fleeing Karur stampede site and orders SIT probe into the tragedy that claimed 41 lives.

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Case Overview

Case Name: PH Dinesh vs. Home Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu

The Madras High Court, led by Justice N Senthil Kumar, harshly criticised Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and its leader, Vijay, for allegedly fleeing the Karur stampede site where 41 people lost their lives during a political rally on September 27, 2025 . The Court noted the absence of remorse or responsibility from the party leadership and questioned the State Government’s inaction in registering FIRs in related hit-and-run incidents . The bench widened the scope of the case, ordering a probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) despite such relief not being sought by the petitioner .

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Key Aspects

The incident exposed lapses in both political accountability and State investigation . The Court found disturbing evidence of negligence and evasion of duty during a public tragedy .

• The organisers and Vijay allegedly fled the scene, abandoning supporters .
• TVK failed to release any official statement showing remorse or responsibility .
• The State Police did not register FIRs for accidents linked to the event .
• The Court criticised the lack of suo motu action despite clear video evidence .

Legal Insights

The Court invoked constitutional and criminal law principles to uphold accountability and due process .

• Article 21 – ensures the right to life, violated by administrative negligence and failure to prevent deaths under Indian Constitution .
• Article 226 – empowers the Madras High Court to issue directions ensuring justice in extraordinary circumstances .
• Section 154, CrPC – mandates registration of FIRs even without a formal complaint when cognizable offences occur .
• The Court applied the doctrine of public accountability to examine both political and administrative failures .

Court’s Verdict

The Madras High Court ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Asra Garg, IGP (North Zone), to probe the Karur stampede. It directed seizure of CCTV footage including visuals from the bus carrying Vijay and ordered the State to cooperate fully . The Court condemned Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leaders for fleeing and the State for its failure to act promptly emphasising that the judiciary cannot remain a “mute spectator” to such tragedies .

Source – Madras High Court

Read also – Indian Constitution 

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