Supreme Court to Hear DMK Plea Against TVK Leaders Over Karur Stampede Witness Influence

The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to urgently hear a petition by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) seeking a direction to bar leaders of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), including Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and Minister Aadhav Arjuna, from making public statements that could influence material witnesses in the Karur stampede case.

The mention was made before a Vacation Bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Sheel Nagu by senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for DMK organising secretary R.S. Bharathi. Mr. Ahmadi submitted that there was an attempt to influence witnesses while a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, ordered by the court, was ongoing. The bench listed the matter for hearing on Tuesday.

The DMK’s application seeks the impleadment of Mr. Bharathi in the pending case. It alleges that Minister Aadhav Arjuna, who holds the Public Works and Sports Development portfolio, made statements on July 2 accusing former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin of responsibility for the stampede. The incident occurred during a TVK rally on September 27 last year, resulting in 41 deaths and 142 injuries. Mr. Bharathi argued that Mr. Arjuna’s remarks were intended to shift blame and prejudice the CBI investigation.

The application notes that Mr. Arjuna is both a cabinet minister and an accused in the stampede case. It contends that his conduct as an accused holding public office is impermissible and could undermine the fairness of the probe. The DMK has sought a direction to the CBI to register a complaint and proceed against the statements for allegedly influencing and tampering with witnesses.

Additionally, the plea highlights that Chief Minister Vijay is expected to visit Karur on July 10 to meet victims’ families and distribute government benefits, including ex gratia payments of ₹10 lakh and compassionate appointments. While the DMK clarified it has no objection to welfare measures, it expressed apprehension that direct interaction with material witnesses by persons connected to the case or the political executive could create a perception of bias in the investigation.

The application also notes that Mr. Vijay, before assuming office, had distributed substantial sums to victims’ families while criminal proceedings were pending. It urges the court to ensure that any benefits are conferred only under Supreme Court supervision and in accordance with proper safeguards.

DMK leader Mr. Bharathi submitted that the distribution of benefits should not take place during the pendency of the CBI investigation except as directed by the court. The Supreme Court is expected to hear the matter on Tuesday.