Supreme Court Rejects Tamil Nadu’s Request to Modify Order on Karur Stampede Probe
The Supreme Court on Friday declined Tamil Nadu’s request to modify its earlier order suspending the one-man inquiry commission and the SIT formed to examine the Karur stampede, which claimed 41 lives. The bench, led by Justices JK Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi, reiterated that the investigation must remain fair and impartial as the incident carries significant public importance.
The court had earlier transferred the probe to the CBI on October 13, observing that the event had deeply affected public sentiment nationwide. Along with directing the CBI investigation, the court created a three-member supervisory committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi. The earlier order had also paused the SIT formation and the inquiry commission appointed by the state.
During the hearing, the bench reviewed the registrar general’s report from the Madras High Court, raising concerns over procedural issues related to how certain petitions were handled. The court noted that it would examine the matter further when considering the final case records. Tamil Nadu argued that its commission would only make recommendations to prevent future tragedies, but the Supreme Court did not alter its previous decision.
The bench also issued notice on a fresh plea regarding the stampede, asking parties to complete filings before the next hearing. The court maintained that individuals alleging intimidation should approach the CBI directly, reinforcing that the central agency remains responsible for the investigation.
The tragedy occurred during a rally led by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, drawing a much larger turnout than expected. The court has highlighted the need for a credible, independent inquiry due to the incident’s political sensitivity and the questions raised around administrative handling.
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The Supreme Court’s firm stance reflects the seriousness with which the Karur stampede is being examined. Ensuring a transparent investigation is essential, especially in cases where political narratives and public trust intersect. By keeping the probe with the CBI and calling for oversight, the court underscores the importance of accountability in large-scale public tragedies. The coming hearings will be crucial in determining both responsibility and systemic reforms.