Chennai, Sept. 27 -- Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai on Saturday blamed the ruling DMK government for "gross negligence" after a stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay's campaign rally in Karur claimed at least 38 lives and left dozens injured.

"In Karur, the news that approximately forty people, including children, lost their lives due to a stampede at a gathering attended by Thaveka leader Vijay is deeply shocking and distressing," Annamalai said, describing the tragedy as "deeply distressing."

He faulted the state police for failing to manage crowd safety.

The incident was triggered by overcrowding during Vijay's address, forcing the actor-politician to cut short his speech as people fainted and ambulances struggle...