A 37-year-old man from Maharashtra died after collapsing at a political meeting addressed by actor-turned-politician Vijay in Salem, Tamil Nadu, triggering fresh concerns over crowd management and safety at large-scale campaign events. The meeting was organised by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), as part of its outreach efforts ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
What Happened at the Rally?
The deceased, identified as Suraj, was originally from Maharashtra and had been residing in Salem for nearly 20 years. According to police sources, he attended the event out of enthusiasm to see Vijay in person. Witnesses said Suraj was standing among the crowd when he began to feel uneasy, complained of chest discomfort, and suddenly collapsed.
He was immediately rushed by ambulance to a nearby hospital and later referred to Salem Government Medical College, where doctors declared him brought dead. Preliminary investigations suggest that Suraj had a pre-existing cardiac condition and had undergone a heart procedure in the past year.
Police officials indicated that cardiac arrest, possibly aggravated by prolonged standing in a crowded and warm environment, is suspected to be the cause of death. A post-mortem examination has been conducted to determine the exact cause.
The rally, held in the Seelanaickenpatti area of Salem district and described by the party as a meeting of functionaries, drew a large turnout despite reported efforts to regulate attendance through controlled entry passes. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the crowd size swelled as supporters gathered from nearby areas, leading to congested conditions at the venue.
Reactions and Scene Outside the Hospital
Tension prevailed outside the hospital after news of Suraj’s death spread. Some mediapersons covering the incident alleged that they were briefly pushed and obstructed by a few party members while attempting to report from the scene. Police personnel intervened to restore order, and no major law-and-order disturbances were officially recorded.
The incident has sparked political reactions across party lines. Leaders from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and the Bharatiya Janata Party criticised the event organisers, questioning whether adequate medical and safety arrangements had been made.
While TVK has not issued a detailed public statement on the incident, party sources expressed condolences to Suraj’s family.
The most serious such incident occurred last year in Karur, when a rally for Vijay’s party turned into one of the deadliest political stampedes in the state’s recent history. On September 27, 2025, thousands of supporters gathered for a TVK event at Velusamypuram, where attendance far exceeded expectations, with an estimated 25,000 to 50,000 people present. Overcrowded conditions, heat, and delays in the leader’s arrival contributed to chaos as people jostled for space. A stampede ensued, resulting in the deaths of at least 41 people, including women and children.
The tragedy underscores the recurring challenge of ensuring public safety during mass political events, particularly in the run-up to elections, when turnout is typically high and emotions run strong. Authorities are expected to review security and medical preparedness protocols for future gatherings in the district.
– Magizh
