Velusamypuram in Karur district does not speak easily about September 27, 2025.

On that day, what was meant to be a show of strength for actor-turned-politician Vijay turned into one of Tamil Nadu’s deadliest political tragedies. The stampede that broke out left 41 people dead, including nine children.

47-year-old George, a resident of Velusamypuram, saw it unfold from his balcony. Seven months later, he says the images haven’t faded from memory. 

As Vijay arrived hours after his scheduled time, the crowds had begun to burgeon and finally went out of control. Many questions remain unanswered, residents say. Why was this location allotted for Vijay’s rally? Who decided that he should visit this particular spot? Questions also persist about the power blackout and fluctuations at the time.

Now as Tamil Nadu heads towards crucial polls and electioneering intensifies across Karur, including by Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), there is an uneasy calm in Velusamypuram. Many here are reluctant to speak, unsure if the tragedy will influence the upcoming polls. 

When TNM approached a man at a tea shop, he was evasive: “I’ve had enough problems. I am a victim and I don’t want to speak.” 

25-year-old Harish, TVK ward secretary of Velusamypuram, said, “The entire world saw........

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