At least 39 people have been killed following a crash during a political rally in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
According to officials, 51 others sustained injuries at the rally organized by actor-turned-politician Vijay Chandrasekhar and are currently receiving treatment.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Stalin, in his address to the media, said the death toll included at least 17 women, 13 men and nine children.
He added that an inquiry into the incident will be opened and families of the deceased persons will receive compensation of one million rupees (Sh1.5 million).
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the crash as tragic and deeply distressing, even as he condoled with the affected families.
“The tragic incident that occurred during a political procession in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply distressing. I express my condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this event. I wish them mental strength during this difficult time. I pray that the injured recover soon,” he said in a statement.
Vijay, the convenor of the gathering, also condoled with the gathering also said his heart was shattered by the events of the evening.
“My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital,” Vijay said.
The crash comes barely four months after 11 people died and dozens sustained injuries in a crash outside a cricket stadium in Bengaluru, which was hosting a victory parade to celebrate the home team's Indian Premier League win.
Thousands of fans had lined the streets to welcome the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who beat the Punjab Kings in the IPL cricket final the day before.