CBI questions Vijay for hours, actor denies TVK role in Karur stampede

CBI grilled actor Vijay for 6 hours on the Karur stampede that killed 41; he denied TVK’s role, further questioning likely after Pongal

Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay was questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for over six hours in connection with the Karur stampede case. The incident, which occurred on September 27, 2025, claimed 41 lives and left more than 60 injured.

During the interrogation, Vijay reportedly denied any involvement of his party or its functionaries in the tragedy. He maintained that his departure from the venue was intended to prevent disorder, as he feared his presence could lead to chaos among the crowd. Sources indicated that TVK leaders previously questioned by the agency had also taken a similar position, distancing the party from responsibility.

The CBI is examining these statements alongside accounts from police officials, who have suggested that delays linked to the actor’s arrival may have contributed to the stampede. Investigators are working to corroborate the testimonies to establish accountability for the incident.

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Vijay arrived in Delhi on Monday morning by chartered flight and reached the heavily secured CBI headquarters to comply with summons issued earlier this month. Following the necessary formalities, he was questioned by officials from the Anti-Corruption unit, which is leading the probe.

According to sources, Vijay will not face questioning on Tuesday but is expected to be summoned again after the Pongal festival for further investigation. The agency is likely to continue examining his role and the broader circumstances surrounding the stampede.

TVK leaders Aadhav Arjuna and Nirmal Kumar accompanied Vijay to Delhi, underscoring the party’s support during the inquiry. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine responsibility for one of the deadliest crowd tragedies in recent years.

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