At least 39 people have died, including children, in a crush at a political rally in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, officials say.
Tens of thousands of people had gathered on Saturday at a campaign event for actor-turned-politician Vijay, in the southern Karur district. It was delayed by several hours, local media reported. Images broadcast on television showed people fainting in the packed crowds.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin told reporters in Karur that the death toll included at least 17 women, 13 men, and nine children. A further 51 people were receiving treatment, he said.
Compensation of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400) will be provided to the families of the deceased, Stalin added, promising an inquiry into the incident.
One man told Indian news agency ANI from outside a hospital about his distress, describing how his brother's two sons had been at the event. The elder one passed away, the younger one is missing. My relatives, my sister-in-law, is in the ICU. What should I do? he said.
Vijay expressed his heartbreak over the tragedy, stating that he was in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow and extended deepest sympathies and condolences to the families affected, while also praying for a speedy recovery for the injured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the incident, describing it as unfortunate and deeply saddening in a post on X.
Such deadly crushes are not uncommon in India, with several tragic incidents reported this year, including at the famous Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium.
