The death toll due to stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rally has risen to 41 on Monday, with 65-year-old woman named Suguna succumbing to her injuries. It has been confirmed by officials that among the 41 deceased, there are 10 children and 18 women. Among all the victims, the youngest is 2-year-old V. Guru Vishnu who hailed from Velusamypuram. Women who lost their lives were in their early 30s and men in their 20s and 30s.
Was an explosive planted at Vijay’s home?
This morning a bomb threat was reported at Vijay’s East Coast Road residence in Neelankarai. Police received a call from an anonymous caller, who claimed that an explosive device had been planted at the property. Upon receiving the threat, Chennai police quickly cordoned off the area, and deployed a bomb disposal squad and sniffer dogs. However, no explosives were recovered.
New rules and guidelines for public gathering
After the tragic incident in which 41 people lost lives, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin made major announcements on Monday. He announced that rules and guidelines will be made for huge mass gatherings, events of both political parties and other organisations.
Stalin said, post receiving the report from Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission of Inquiry, he will consult all political parties and other organisations and accordingly make rules and guidelines.
A recorded video clip shared on social media platform, Stalin is heard saying, “It is our collective duty to frame rules and guidelines to be followed by political parties and other organisations when they organise such events. So, I assure you that these rules and guidelines will be framed once the report from the Commission of Inquiry is received and after consultations are held with all political parties and organisations. I hope everyone will extend their cooperation in this regard.”
Is Vijay planning another roadshow?
On October 11, actor-turned-politician Vijay plans to make his political presence felt in Puducherry. As he resumes his campaign in neighbouring Cuddalore district in Tamil Nadu, he plans to stop in the Union Territory for a roadshow and a street-corner meeting. Police have confirmed that a request for the roadshow is under consideration, “We have received a representation from TVK functionaries. Reports from different wings of the police and other departments are being compiled before a decision is made.”
Road shows are planned in some of the busiest stretches like Ajantha Signal, S.V. Patel Salai, Anna Salai, Sonampalayam, and Marappalam Junction. If this roadshow gets a green signal then it will once again draw a huge crowd.