AIADMK takes 'coffin dance' jibe after man collapses, dies at TVK chief Vijay’s Salem rally

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay (File photo)

• Man dies at TVK rally in Salem, sparking political controversy
• AIADMK criticizes event safety after death linked to heatstroke
• Incident renews focus on crowd safety at political gatherings

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A political storm erupted in Tamil Nadu after a 37-year-old man collapsed and died during Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s rally in Salem on Friday. Within hours of the incident, the AIADMK launched a sharp attack, using satire to question the safety arrangements at the event.

AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan shared a social media post featuring the viral Ghanaian Dancing Pallbearers, known globally for their choreographed coffin dance performances. In a pointed remark, Sathyan wrote, "Looks like to attend a TVK rally in the future, one should carry his/her coffin."

The jab came after police sources cited in media reports indicated that the death was primarily linked to heatstroke caused by dehydration, though the deceased also had pre-existing cardiac issues.

தவெக கூட்டத்திற்கு போனா இனிமேல் கையோடு சவப் பெட்டியையும் கொண்டு போக வேண்டும் என்பது உறுதி. Looks like to attend TVK rally in future one should carry his/her coffin. #TVK_rallymurderpic.twitter.com/kPyO7u5j1E

— Kovai Sathyan (@KovaiSathyan) February 13, 2026

Victim identified as Suraj

The deceased has been identified as Suraj, originally from Maharashtra, who had been living in the Sevvaipettai locality of Salem. He worked in silver-related labour and is survived by his wife and a child.

According to accounts from those present, Suraj fainted suddenly while attending the meeting as a spectator. He was given first aid at the venue and rushed to Manima Hospital, but doctors declared him dead. Police sources told India Today TV that he had underlying heart ailments, which may have contributed to his condition.

In a post on X, TVK leader Nirmal Kumar confirmed the identity of the victim and expressed grief. “He was immediately given first aid, and the organisers rushed him to the hospital in time. However, Suraj’s death due to a heart attack is heartbreaking,” Kumar wrote, offering his “deepest condolences for the untimely death of young Suraj.”

Crowd size, safety concerns after Karur stampede killed 41

Police sources revealed that more than 7,000 people were allowed inside the venue despite official approval for a capacity of 5,000. Individuals with health issues were also permitted entry. Authorities have indicated that a First Information Report will be registered against the organisers once the precise cause of death is determined.

The incident has revived memories of the Karur rally tragedy last September, where a stampede during a Vijay-led gathering resulted in 41 fatalities. That episode had raised serious questions about crowd management and public safety at large-scale political meetings.

This time, officials said elaborate arrangements had been made to prevent a repeat. Heavy police deployment, strict vehicle inspections, traffic diversions, and regulated entry were enforced. The Salem meeting was reportedly capped at 4,998 participants in line with police directions. Only individuals issued QR code-embedded entry passes were allowed inside, with identity cards subjected to verification checks.

Despite these measures, the death has intensified scrutiny over event planning and adherence to safety protocols.

Vijay accuses government of bias

Addressing supporters at the rally, Vijay alleged discrimination by the ruling government in granting permissions for political events. He said his party faced hurdles not imposed on others.

"They grant permission and provide space for other parties to hold conferences, public meetings, or hall functions. But for us alone, they won't give space, nor will they allow it to be given. For other parties, they provide a suitable venue and adequate security so they can meet people or people can meet them. But for me, they won't provide it, nor will they let it be provided. What kind of justice is this?" he said.

Taking a swipe at the administration’s procedures, he added, "They talk about SOPs. Its full form is Standard Operating Procedure. But for me, it seems to mean Stalin-oh sorry, Stalin Sir Operating Procedure."

The rally was part of TVK’s campaign efforts ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Cash transfer scheme and whistle symbol

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister MK Stalin had announced that Rs 3,000 was being credited in advance for February, March, and April under the Kalaignar Women’s Rights Scheme, along with an additional Rs 2,000 as a special summer package. This brought the total transfer to Rs 5,000 for 1.31 crore beneficiaries for the month.

Referring to such financial assistance, Vijay told the crowd, "People will come and give you thousands of rupees. Please get that money because it's your money. But after receiving the money, blow the whistle in their ears and give them a send-off." The whistle is TVK’s election symbol.

He also led supporters in a pledge, saying, "My vote is my right. No one can buy us. Our vote is for whistle."

Responding to critics who question his political experience, Vijay remarked, "Other than scamming experience, what other qualities do the people who question my experience have? We don't have experience, yes. We don't have experience in looting."

Symbolism and political context

During the gathering, TVK leader KG Arunraj presented a Sengol to Vijay, and the Salem unit of the party also honoured him with another Sengol as a symbolic gesture.

The 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly is scheduled to go to the polls in the first half of 2026. In the previous election held in 2021, the DMK secured 133 seats. Congress won 18 seats, PMK five, VCK four, and others eight. The AIADMK secured 66 seats. The Secular Progressive Alliance led by the DMK won 159 seats collectively, while the NDA obtained 75 seats.

As investigations continue into Suraj’s death, the Salem rally has once again placed public safety at the centre of Tamil Nadu’s high-voltage political contest.