TVK rally stampede: Will accountability be fixed for the disaster? Panelists debate

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has moved the Supreme Court, accusing West Bengal's Chief Minister of obstructing a central investigation during a raid. In a special report by India Today, the ED's plea alleges that the Chief Minister interrupted the search and forcibly took away seized items. A national spokesperson for the BJP argued that this sets a dangerous precedent, stating, 'I can't think of another instance in recent times. Where a chief minister goes to an investigation site, tries to decamp with the electronic and physical evidence, and then has the audacity to play victim'. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has countered by filing a caveat, alleging a 'constitutional breach' and misuse of central agencies ahead of the 2026 assembly polls. A political analyst supporting the TMC's position claimed the Chief Minister's actions were justified, while a political commentator noted the issue has become a pitched political battle that resonates with voters in Bengal.

A panel of analysts discusses the political ramifications of recent events surrounding actor Vijay in Tamil Nadu. The discussion centres on two key issues: his questioning by the CBI in connection with a fatal stampede at his rally, and the Censor Board's aggressive efforts to stall the release of his latest film. One analyst suggests the CBI probe is a procedural necessity that Vijay's own party had sought, while the film's delay could generate public sympathy. The panel explores whether these events are tactics by the BJP to intimidate Vijay or to encourage him to join the NDA. A panelist speculates that if Vijay were to form an alliance with the NDA, 'they will sweep the election in 2026', but notes that no party has yet accepted his chief ministerial ambitions.

This special report covers the CBI investigation into the deadly Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives. Actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijay was questioned by the agency in Delhi for over seven hours. According to sources, Vijay told the CBI that 'TVK not responsible for Stampede' and that he left the venue to prevent further chaos. The probe, initiated after a Supreme Court directive, is examining several critical questions, including why Vijay was late to the venue and why his speech continued despite reports of people fainting. The incident, which occurred at a political rally on September 27, has cast a shadow over Vijay's recent political debut, raising questions of accountability and power as the investigation unfolds.

Hilal Bhat saved his comrade under heavy fire and made the ultimate sacrifice.