The Tamil Nadu government has issued new draft guidelines for public meetings and political rallies in the state to ensure the safety of participants, following the tragic stampede at a TVK rally in Karur that claimed 41 lives in September 2025.According to the guidelines submitted to the Madras High Court, political parties and event organisers are primarily responsible for the safety and security of people attending their public meetings, roadshows, protests, and rallies.
The key points of the guidelines include: Political parties must ensure the safety of the public, including crowd control, structural safety of stages and barricades, and medical arrangements such as first aid and ambulances. Participants should not be made to assemble at the venue more than two hours before the event begins to avoid unnecessary crowding. Public meetings with an anticipated crowd exceeding 5,000 people will be regulated under these rules.Organisers must seek permission at least 10 days in advance (30 days for very large gatherings exceeding 50,000 people), specifying details such as venue, date, time, expected crowd size, vehicle count, and details of key political leaders attending.
Designated venues for public events will be identified in consultation with local officials, police, and recognized political parties. Roads and highways used for rallies require prior permission from relevant authorities.
Organisers are liable for any damage caused to public or private property during events and must restore the venue after the meeting.Special provisions are mandated for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities, including providing them separate enclosures and volunteers for assistance.
No more than half the width of a road may be occupied during processions to allow traffic flow.The Collector and police authorities have the power to approve spontaneous protests or demonstrations with necessary restrictions.
These measures aim to prevent chaotic situations during political events and ensure orderly conduct and public safety. The Tamil Nadu government expects strict adherence to these guidelines by all political parties and organisers to avoid incidents like the Karur tragedy in the future.