Tamil Nadu Police have arrested three individuals and filed cases against 25 social media accounts for spreading panic and misinformation following the Karur stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally, which claimed 41 lives.
Officials highlight that the combination of organisational lapses and the viral spread of unverified claims worsened public distress and have pledged robust legal action to maintain order. Investigations are ongoing as authorities call for restraint and responsibility from both event organisers and online users.
Police Response to Social Media Rumours
Law enforcement in Tamil Nadu responded swiftly after a surge in online activity following the deadly Karur stampede, which occurred at a campaign rally for Vijay. According to the FIR, the tragedy was intensified by the crowd swelling to over 25,000 people against an authorised limit of 10,000, combined with prolonged waiting,
heat, and inadequate facilities. In the aftermath, three men – including two members of Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party – were arrested by Chennai’s cybercrime police for allegedly spreading false information online that contributed to widespread panic.
The men, identified as Sagayam, Sivanesan, and Sarathkumar, were remanded in custody, while 25 social media accounts have been booked for similar activities.
Organisational Lapses and Crowd Mismanagement
Eyewitness accounts and official statements point to significant management oversights that compounded the disaster. The FIR accuses senior TVK members, including district secretary Mathiazhagan, of “deliberately delaying” the rally programme, with unauthorised roadshows and the use of a campaign vehicle in the crowd, which worsened congestion.
Supporters climbing tin sheds and trees led to structural collapses that crushed attendees below. Despite repeated warnings from police, event marshals reportedly failed to control the swelling crowds, highlighting the dangers of poor coordination during mass gatherings.
Digital Reckoning: Legal and Social Implications
Police emphasise that social media activity, when unchecked, can add layers of fear and chaos in emergent situations. The special social media monitoring unit tracked accounts believed to have shared, retweeted, or forwarded unsubstantiated updates on the death toll and event details.
Officials have cautioned that not just the original creators, but also those who amplify such posts, will face strict legal action under relevant Acts. Senior police officers urge the community to depend solely on official channels for information and warned of consequences for those disregarding these advisories.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The tragedy in Karur demonstrates that in moments of collective grief, restraint and responsibility are essential, both by event organisers and those interacting in the digital sphere.
The Logical Indian strongly advocates for peace and empathy, underlining the vital role digital literacy plays in preventing the weaponisation of rumours. Communities must embrace transparent communication while supporting timely, unbiased investigations.
