More than 30 dead in crush at political rally in India

At least 36 people have died, including children, in a crush at a political rally in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Tens of thousands of people had gathered yesterday at a campaign event for actor-turned-politician Vijay in the southern Karur district.

Local media reported that it was delayed by several hours, and images broadcast on television showed people fainting in the packed crowds.

Politician Senthil Balaji spoke to reporters outside a local hospital to confirm the deaths, and added that more than 50 other people had been injured.

State Health Minister Ma Subramanian told local media that the death toll includes at least 16 women, nine men, and six children. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin says some people were taken to the hospital after fainting in the crush, and extra assistance has been requested from doctors working in nearby districts.

Stalin adds that compensation of one million rupees (FJ$25,000) will be provided to the families of the deceased, and there will be an inquiry into the incident.

Deadly crushes are not uncommon in India, and there have been several similarly tragic incidents this year alone, including at the famous Kumbh Mela Hindu festival and outside a cricket stadium.