An Indian superstar-turned-politician is at the centre of a massive row after 40 people died in a crush at his party's rally on Saturday. Tens of thousands of people turned up at the campaign event held by Vijay in Karur district in Tamil Nadu state. The actor was in the middle of his speech when the crowd surged suddenly.
This tragedy has sparked a blame game, with the opposition accusing government officials of not deploying enough police personnel to control crowds. Police officials have said that the rally's organisers, who are from Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, underestimated the anticipated crowd size and did not take enough precautions.
Who is Vijay?
Vijay, at 51, is one of Tamil Nadu's most beloved actors, with a career spanning decades. Born to a filmmaker father and singer mother, he made his debut as a child actor and has since become one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars, even transitioning into politics with the launch of his political party last year. Despite the chaos at his rally, Vijay's popularity remains a significant factor in the state's political landscape.
Why did he join politics?
For years, speculation surrounded Vijay's political aspirations. A fan club he founded previously performed well in local elections, which likely fueled his decision to fully commit to politics. This crossover from film to politics is common in Tamil Nadu, where many stars leverage their fame for electoral success. However, critics argue that celebrity-led parties often lack the grassroots experience needed to navigate India's complex political environment.
What will happen now?
After this incident, calls for accountability have emerged, including the possibility of arresting Vijay. While state officials claim the venue was safe, accusations of negligence and lack of proper crowd management abound. A commission of inquiry has been launched, and the political fallout could significantly affect Vijay's future ambitions.
The tragic events of this political rally not only underscore the challenges of mass gatherings but also illuminate the intersection of celebrity and politics in India.
