A criminal case has been filed against actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay in connection with the stampede that killed 40 people at a public rally organized by his party in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The information was confirmed on Sunday by a senior local police official to news agency Reuters.

The case has been filed against top leaders of Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), including Vijay himself, who has been the party’s president since its formation. Others named in the case include Bussey Anand, Nirmal Kumar, and V.P. Mathialagan. Police allege that the TVK violated official conditions set for the rally and disregarded safety protocols.

The rally, held on Saturday ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections, ended in tragedy when 40 people were crushed to death in a stampede. Among the deceased were 17 women and 9 children. More than 50 people are currently being treated in hospitals for injuries sustained during the incident.

According to police, TVK had sought permission for 10,000 attendees, but more than double that number showed up.

Vijay also faces criticism for arriving late to the event. Several attendees reportedly waited all day to catch a glimpse of the actor, and as Vijay finally took the stage in the evening, crowds surged toward the barricades, leading to panic and a deadly stampede.

Following the tragedy, Thalapathy Vijay expressed deep sorrow on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“This is a pain beyond words. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the brothers and sisters who lost their lives. I pray for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment in hospitals.”

Vijay also announced financial assistance of ₹2 million (₹20 lakh) for each family of the deceased and ₹200,000 (₹2 lakh) for each injured person.