The Supreme Court on Monday ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Karur stampede case and formed a three-member supervisory committee led by retired Justice Ajay Rastogi to oversee the investigation.
A Bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and N.V. Anjaria said the tragic incident had “left a deep imprint on the national conscience”, and the families of the deceased had approached the court seeking an unbiased inquiry. The court emphasized that an impartial probe was necessary to uphold citizens’ fundamental rights and ensure public faith in justice.
Why the CBI Probe Was Ordered
The Bench noted that several senior state officials had publicly exonerated subordinates, which compromised the credibility of the investigation.
“This creates doubt in the minds of citizens about the independence and impartiality of the probe,” the court said, highlighting that the victims’ families deserved a transparent process.
The Justice Rastogi-led panel has been authorized to look into all matters related to the stampede, including any “ancillary or incidental” issues. The CBI must submit monthly progress reports to this committee. Two senior IPS officers unconnected to Tamil Nadu will also assist Justice Rastogi to ensure neutrality.
Court Criticizes Madras High Court’s Handling
The Supreme Court expressed concern over the Madras High Court’s October 3 order, which had accused TVK party leaders, including Joseph Vijay, of “fleeing” the scene.
The apex court said the High Court’s single-judge order had expanded the scope of the original petition beyond what was filed, calling it “strange” that new prayers were entertained, leading to “multiplicity of proceedings.”
The Bench added that the order was issued “without hearing the concerned parties” and criticized the lack of coordination with the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, who had already constituted a one-man commission of inquiry into the stampede.
‘Explanation’ Sought from High Court Registry
Calling the situation a “matter of concern,” the Supreme Court has asked the Registrar General of the Madras High Court to explain how a petition on crowd management became a criminal writ petition instead of a public interest litigation (PIL). It also demanded to know whether such petitions would now be listed before a single judge or a Division Bench.
Background: What Happened at the Karur Rally
The Karur stampede occurred during a TVK political rally, where attendance reportedly exceeded permitted limits. Police had approved the event for around 10,000 people, but the turnout surged to nearly 25,000.
Poor crowd management, lack of drinking water, and insufficient facilities were cited as key contributing factors. Several women and children lost their lives in the tragedy.
In his earlier order, Justice Senthilkumar of the Madras High Court had called the event a “huge man-made disaster”, remarking that the leadership showed “no remorse” even after the deaths.
What Happens Next
The CBI investigation is now underway under the supervision of the Justice Rastogi panel, which has been asked to organize its first meeting immediately and complete the inquiry “as expeditiously as possible”.
