Karur Stampede: Actor Vijay's Party Moves Supreme Court, Seeks Independent Probe

The plea challenges the Madras High Court’s October 3 order forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Inspector General of Police. The petition argues that the High Court itself questioned the independence of the state police but nevertheless directed a probe by senior police officers from the same force.

“The petitioner-party and its leaders are prejudiced by the order which appoints an SIT composed solely of officers of the State Police, especially in view of the High Court’s own dissatisfaction with their independence,” the plea states.

TVK further contends that the tragedy may have resulted from a pre-planned conspiracy by miscreants aiming to disrupt the rally and that a probe led by a retired Supreme Court judge is necessary to ensure impartiality.

The party has also objected to the High Court’s strong remarks holding TVK leaders responsible for “fleeing from the scene” and not assisting victims, calling them “factually incorrect and contrary to record.” The plea asserts that TVK members, upon learning of people fainting, immediately took coordinated steps to provide medical aid and assistance.

The Madras High Court, while forming the SIT, had also banned political rallies, roadshows, and similar public events along highways until Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are framed. It had criticised TVK workers and the State government for their handling of the event.

Notably, the Supreme Court on October 7, agreed to hear on October 10 an appeal by BJP leader challenging the High Court’s refusal to order a CBI probe into the same incident.