At least 40 people have died and over 120 others were injured following a stampede at a political rally in southern India’s Tamil Nadu state, authorities said Sunday.

State Health Minister Ma Subramanian told The Associated Press that 36 victims were dead upon arrival at hospitals on Saturday night, with four more succumbing later. The casualties include nine children. Most of the injured are reported to be in stable condition.

The incident occurred in Karur district during a rally for actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, popularly known as Vijay, who is campaigning ahead of Tamil Nadu’s 2026 state elections. Tens of thousands had gathered under sweltering heat. Vijay, one of the state’s most celebrated actors, arrived more than six hours late, leaving the crowd congested and difficult to manage.

Eyewitnesses said barricades and ropes were in place, but the crowd became uncontrollable. Some attendees fainted while Vijay addressed the rally, prompting him to pause and call in ambulances. The stampede reportedly began as Vijay’s vehicle moved, with supporters chasing it, causing chaos.

Subramanian cited “indiscipline” at the event. The state government has ordered a probe led by a former judge, expected to report within a month. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced financial assistance of over $11,000 for each family of the deceased.

Vijay expressed his condolences on X, saying, “My heart is shattered… I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also called the tragedy “deeply saddening.”

Stampedes are relatively frequent in India during large gatherings. Earlier this year, at least 30 people died during the Maha Kumbh festival in January, when crowds rushed to bathe in a sacred river.