KARUR: The death toll from Saturday night's stampede at actor-politician Vijay's rally in Karur rose to 41 on Monday, prompting him to allege a "political conspiracy" and approach Madras high court's Madurai bench seeking a CBI or independent investigation. More than 60 people were hospitalised, with at least two in critical condition. The youngest victim is a two-year-old boy. Others included a 28-year-old woman and her two daughters under 10, and a 24-year-old couple set to marry. Chief minister M K Stalin reached Karur around 3am and visited the govt hospital treating the injured, paid homage to the deceased - including 10 children and 17 women - and assured support for their families. He said any action against Vijay would depend on the inquiry commission report headed by retired
Karur stampede: Vijay alleges political conspiracy, moves HC; two

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