The opposition DMK on Thursday approached a Supreme Court-appointed Supervisory Committee, seeking measures to ensure that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s proposed visit to Karur does not influence material witnesses in the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the 2025 stampede case. Vijay is scheduled to visit Karur on July 10 to meet the families of those who died or were injured in the stampede and to distribute government orders for compassionate appointments.
In a formal representation, DMK Organisation Secretary R S Bharathi urged the Supervisory Committee to direct the state Chief Secretary and the CBI to take adequate safeguards to prevent any possible tampering with or influence on witnesses.
Bharathi expressed concern that direct interaction between the political executive and victims’ families —many of whom are key witnesses in the case — could raise apprehensions about the independence and fairness of the ongoing investigation. He emphasised that while the party does not oppose the extension of ex-gratia relief or compassionate appointments, it remains wary of any action that could affect witness testimonies.
The representation clarified that the DMK’s intention is not to obstruct or delay welfare measures for affected families but to ensure that the integrity of the investigative process is maintained.
The move comes in the wake of a July 7 order by the Supreme Court of India, which allowed the withdrawal of an interlocutory application while granting liberty to pursue appropriate legal remedies. The Supervisory Committee, constituted by the apex court in October 2025, has been tasked with overseeing the CBI’s investigation into the Karur stampede case, including reviewing evidence and ensuring a fair and transparent inquiry.
The stampede, which occurred in September 2025 during a political rally addressed by Vijay, claimed 41 lives and left several others injured. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
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