Political situation in India

Panic breaks out at political rally in India – 40 dead

40 people died when panic broke out at a political rally in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Saturday. Among the victims are at least eight children.

The crowd had gathered for a meeting of popular actor Vijay's newly founded party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. According to the Times of India, at least 27,000 people attended, even though the party had sought permission for around 10,000.

It is unclear what led to the deadly tragedy. According to the Times of India, panic broke out when Vijay arrived to give his speech.

Police investigate party after deadly tragedy

Indian police have launched a preliminary investigation into the leadership of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party after Saturday's tragedy that led to the death of 40 people, writes Reuters.

According to a statement, the party had sought permission for a mass rally with around 10,000 participants. Almost three times as many people showed up, which may have contributed to the chaos that led to many being trampled to death.

Party leader Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, often known as Vijay, is one of the most popular actors in the state of Tamil Nadu. The accident occurred while he was giving a speech.