Chennai: In a blow to chief minister Vijay, the Madras High Court on Monday struck down the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to provide jobs to families of those who were killed in last year’s Karur stampede while disposing of a batch of PILs challenging the compassionate appointments.
The high court quashed the government order saying that the appointments were in direct violation of Articles 14 and 16 of Constitution.
The bench observed that the exercise of executive power while issuing such orders must remain within the framework of the Constitution, LiveLaw.in reported.
“If executive action were to be left unfettered and given free hand, chaos will reign… Compassionate appointments for this incident will only open floodgates for various others to seek such employment,” the high court said.
“Public employment is not to be thrown away by state. It has to be earned. Its value has to be realised. Its importance is to be cherished. There are many who wait seeking employment,” the bench explained.
The high court had earlier allowed the state government’s order to provide government jobs to victims’ families, but said that the appointments would be temporary and subject to judicial review.
As many as 41 people, including children, were killed in the stampede during a TVK rally addressed by Vijay on 27th September, 2025.
Police alleged that Vijay’s delayed arrival resulted in the crowd swelling beyond the permitted limit, and also alleged inadequate drinking water, food and toilet facilities as key lapses.
Vijay’s party denied the allegations, and held police responsible for the tragedy.
