Karur stampede case: SC orders CBI probe, forms committee
What's the story
The Supreme Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Karur stampede in Tamil Nadu, which took place on September 27, Bar and Bench reported. The tragic incident occurred during a political rally of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), resulting in the deaths of at least 41 people. The TVK is led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, who had challenged a Madras High Court order for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
Probe oversight
Committee to supervise CBI investigation
Vijay also sought an independent investigation and addressed adverse remarks made by the High Court. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and NV Anjaria, has constituted a three-member committee to supervise the CBI investigation. The panel will be headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi. Two Indian Police Service officers, who may be from Tamil Nadu but not locals, will also be part of this panel.
Reporting schedule
CBI to submit monthly reports
The Supreme Court has directed the CBI to submit monthly reports of its investigation to the panel. The court had earlier expressed concern over conflicting orders from the Madras High Court regarding this case. The Madurai Bench of the High Court had refused a CBI probe, while its principal bench ordered an SIT investigation.
Case background
Madras HC ordered SIT probe
On October 3, Justice N Senthilkumar of the Madras High Court ordered an SIT probe, criticizing the state's investigation. The court noted no criminal case had been registered regarding two hit-and-run incidents involving Vijay's bus. Following this order, a case was reportedly filed against Vijay's campaign vehicle driver for these incidents. The TVK then appealed to the Supreme Court for an independent investigation into the stampede.
Legal proceedings
SOP for rallies plea assigned to division bench
The Supreme Court has assigned the plea for a standard operating protocol (SOP) for road shows and rallies to a division bench of the Madras High Court. Senior Advocates Gopal Subramaniam and Aryama Sundaram represented TVK, while Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi and P Wilson appeared for Tamil Nadu in this case.