New Delhi, Oct 13:
The Supreme Court has ordered the transfer of the Karur stampede case in Tamil Nadu to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), ensuring an independent and transparent probe into the tragic incident that claimed 41 lives.
The stampede occurred during a public welfare event organised by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, led by actor Vijay, in Karur district. Following the tragedy, the Tamil Nadu government had formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under Inspector General of Police A.S.R. Kark to investigate the matter. However, the party moved the Supreme Court, demanding that the probe be taken out of the state’s control and monitored by an independent authority.
Hearing the plea, a Bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and N.V. Anjaria directed that the investigation be handed over to the CBI. The court said the probe would be monitored by a three-member committee headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Ajay Rastogi. Two IPS officers who are not from Tamil Nadu will also be part of this committee to ensure neutrality.
The Supreme Court clarified that its order is interim in nature and will continue until further orders. The CBI has been directed to take over all records, evidence, and documents collected so far by the state SIT and proceed with the investigation.