Actor-turned politician Vijay’s political rally held in Salem has been overshadowed by a tragedy. A man who was a resident of Maharashtra who fainted during the rally, later died due to cardiac arrest, local administration confirmed.

The deceased had a pre-existing heart condition; he had undergone a stent implantation surgery last year. He was standing far behind in the rally when he collapsed, as per the official that there were more than 5,000 people, more than permitted limit, so some were standing outside. When he collapsed, his friends who had accompanied him for the rally rushed him to the hospital, but he was declared dead.

Vijay’s rally draws political criticism

This incident has drawn political reaction, even though officials clarified that the man’s death isn’t linked with the crowded venue. Spokesperson of AIADMK Kovai Sathyan took a jibe on Vijay’s rally on social media platform, he wrote, “People will have to carry their coffin one day to attend TVK rallies”. Another leader from DMK TKS Elangovan also took a jibe at Vijay, saying Vijay did not have the qualities that are prerequisite for a leader. While speaking to a news agency, Elangovan said, “Vijay had never participated in people’s agitations but now he wants to become chief minister,”.

What does Vijay’s party have to say?

Rejecting all allegations, Vijay’s party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) spokesperson said for this rally the space selected was huge and had enough space, there were many medical camps, and an ambulance was standby, in order to handle any emergency all preparations were in place.

This was the second rally of actor-turned politician Vijay after the last event in Karur in September last year where 41 people were killed in stampede. CBI is investigating that case post SC ordered an independent investigation, following a petition by Vijay’s party TVK.

While the rally has become a political criticism, Vijay has accused DMK government (ruling party) for denying venue permission to hold the meeting, while giving permission to other opposition parties. “They give space, security, and permissions to other parties. But when it comes to us, they deny everything. What kind of justice is this?” Vijay said. Taking a jibe on Stalin, Vijay said, “SOP now appears to mean Stalin Operating Procedure.”

Was Vijay’s rally in Salem overcrowded?

This time the rally had far tighter security, entry was stopped after 4,998 people. Those with QR code-enabled passes were only permitted inside. Thus, the rally was crowded but it won’t be correct to say it was overcrowded.

Just before the rally, under the Kalaignar Women’s Rights Scheme, Stalin credited Rs 3,000 each in advance for February, March, and April and additional Rs 2,000 summer assistance. As Tamil Nadu heads for assembly elections, the political atmosphere remains charged in the state.