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Puducherry: Actor-politician Vijay, in his first public address since the fatal Karur stampede, held a tightly controlled rally at the Uppalam Port Complex today. The event, organized by his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was governed by stringent security and entry protocols mandated by the Puducherry government and police, reflecting a new era of caution following the September tragedy that claimed 41 lives.
Stringent Entry and Security MeasuresIn a stark departure from typical political rallies, access was severely restricted:
TVK Puducherry Rally: Venue Preparation and Logistics
Extensive groundwork was undertaken to prepare the Uppalam port ground, which had been waterlogged. Over two days, authorities conducted water drainage, soil dumping, leveling, and cleaning. The perimeter was secured with tarpaulin sheet fencing to control crowds. Organizers provided essential facilities, including drinking water, emergency medical services, fire safety units, and toilets.
Vijay Rally and Traffic Arrangements
Vijay is expected to arrive at the venue at 10:30 AM from his Chennai residence. In keeping with the austere arrangements, he will be delivering his speech while standing in his campaign vehicle, with all volunteers required to stand and listen. As per police directives, the meeting concluded before the 12:30 PM deadline.To ensure order, vehicle traffic was banned on Uppalam Road from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Volunteers were instructed to park in designated areas and walk to the ground via footpaths, with strict warnings against blocking roads or following Vijay's convoy.
A New Protocol Post-Karur Tragedy
The elaborate arrangements stem directly from the Karur incident on September 27, which halted Vijay's political tours and prompted judicial scrutiny of public event safety. This rally was designed to comply with the enhanced security and crowd-management protocols established thereafter.
Puducherry Senior Superintendent of Police Kalaivanan emphasized the non-negotiable nature of the rules, stating, "Everyone should follow the norms. Safety is important. Action will be taken against those who violate the norms."The event marks a cautious, heavily regulated resumption of Vijay's direct public engagement, prioritizing safety over spectacle in the wake of profound tragedy.
