Supreme Court Orders CBI Investigation into Karur Stampede Incident
A Three-Member Supervisory Committee Constituted to Ensure Fair and Impartial Probe
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has ordered the transfer of the investigation into the tragic Karur stampede incident to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The incident, which occurred on September 27, 2025, during a political rally organized by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) at Velusamypuram, Karur District, Tamil Nadu, resulted in the loss of 41 lives and injuries to over 100 individuals.
The apex court, in its interim order dated October 13, 2025, emphasized the importance of a fair, impartial, and independent investigation in cases of grave public importance. The decision was made to restore public confidence in the criminal justice system, given the national ramifications of the incident and the allegations of negligence against local authorities.
The Supreme Court highlighted that fair investigation is a fundamental right of citizens, as underscored in its previous judgments. To ensure the independence and thoroughness of the investigation, the Court constituted a three-member Supervisory Committee headed by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ajay Rastogi (Retd.), a former Judge of the Supreme Court. The committee will monitor the CBI investigation and is empowered to issue directions to guarantee a comprehensive probe.
The judgment comes in response to multiple petitions filed by victims' families and public-spirited citizens, seeking an unbiased investigation due to the perceived inadequacies in the local police's handling of the case. The Court noted the political undertones surrounding the incident, which involved Thiru Vijay, a renowned Tamil actor and leader of TVK, who was present during the rally. Allegations were made regarding the permission granted by the police for the rally and the subsequent failure to manage the crowd effectively, leading to the stampede.
The Supreme Court criticized the lack of coordination between the Madurai Bench and the Main Seat of the Madras High Court in handling similar prayers related to the incident, which led to conflicting orders. The Court directed that the pending writ petition concerning the formulation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for political rallies and public gatherings be assigned to the Division Bench by the Chief Justice of the High Court.
Additionally, the Court suspended the previous directions for the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a one-member Enquiry Commission constituted by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, pending the CBI investigation. The State of Tamil Nadu was directed to cooperate fully with the CBI and provide logistical support as required.
The CBI has been tasked with taking over the investigation immediately, with monthly progress reports to be submitted to the Supervisory Committee. The investigation is to be completed expeditiously within the statutory time frame, ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
Statutory provision(s): Articles 32 and 226 of the Constitution of India, Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita, 2023 (Sections 105, 110, 125B, 223), Tamil Nadu Public Property (Prevention of Damage and Loss) Act, 1992
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam v. P.H. Dinesh, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2793701
