Tamilnadu- At least 36 people, including women and children, were killed in a stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district, on Saturday.

The rally was organized for actor-turned-politician Vijay and drew tens of thousands of supporters. Local media reported the event was delayed for several hours, leading to overcrowding. Television footage showed people fainting in the packed venue.

State Health Minister Ma Subramanian said the victims included at least 16 women, nine men, and six children. More than 50 others were injured and taken to hospitals, where additional medical teams from nearby districts have been mobilized.

Chief Minister MK Stalin announced compensation of one million rupees ($11,300; £8,400) for each of the bereaved families and said an inquiry has been launched into the tragedy.

In a statement, Vijay expressed that his heart was “broken” and described his pain as “unbearable and indescribable.” He extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his sorrow on X, calling the incident “deeply saddening.”