Ambulance Drivers Questioned After Vijay Rally Stampede in Tamil Nadu

Ambulance drivers who risked their lives to rescue victims during the Vijay campaign rally stampede in Karur, Tamil Nadu, were questioned by police on Saturday, highlighting the challenges faced by first responders amid political controversy.

The September 27 stampede at the rally of TVK leader Vijay tragically claimed 41 lives and left 60 injured. In the aftermath, blame was exchanged between Vijay’s party and the Stalin government, creating a tense political environment.

According to Surya, a local ambulance service provider, the emergency teams braved chaotic crowds to save people, including women and children, yet faced attacks and questioning by authorities. “Four of my men came under attack that day. We saved so many lives,” Surya said, explaining that police asked for vehicle documents and details about how the ambulance services were alerted. He clarified that the police had called them to respond.

The controversy escalated after AIADMK General Secretary Edapadi K. Palanisamy alleged that empty ambulances were deliberately sent into the crowd to disperse people, a claim that further inflamed tensions. Following similar allegations by TVK leaders, the District Police, ahead of the SIT investigation, summoned ambulance drivers for questioning.

Surya also raised concerns about the lack of compensation for ambulance drivers who came under attack while performing their duties. “My team worked so hard that night, braving unruly crowds and bringing patients back to hospitals. One driver even administered CPR and saved a child. Yet, no compensation has been announced for those who were attacked,” he lamented.

The incident underscores the risks faced by first responders in politically charged environments and the need for protection and recognition for their life-saving work.