Tamil Nadu: Scuffle breaks out outside Salem hospital after man dies during TVK chief Vijay’s rally

SALEM (Tamil Nadu): Tensions flared outside a hospital in Tamil Nadu’s Salem as a scuffle broke out between journalists and cadres of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) after a man reportedly suffered a heart attack during a TVK chief Vijay’s rally. Journalists alleged that the cadres tried to attack them while covering the incident.

A 37-year-old man from Maharashtra reportedly suffered a heart attack during a rally led by TVK chief Vijay earlier on Friday. His body was brought to the hospital in Salem. This death comes months after a stampede during a rally held by Vijay in Karur claimed nearly 40 lives.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Visuals from outside the hospital, in Salem, where a scuffle broke out between some journalists and TVK cadres. The journalists alleged that the cadres tried to attack them. More details awaited.

A 37-year-old man from Maharashtra, identified as Suraj, died… pic.twitter.com/8Adf8VxHmN

— ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2026

Speaking on the incident, the police said, “During the event, he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed for medical assistance, but was declared dead, reportedly due to a heart attack. Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident.”

The deceased has been identified as Suraj, who resided in the Sevvaipettai area of Salem and was engaged in silver-related labour. He was married and is survived by his wife and a child.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Body of 37-year-old man from Maharashtra, identified as Suraj, who died after reportedly suffering a heart attack during TVK’s political meeting in Salem today, being taken from MH Hospital

Police say, “During the event, he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed… https://t.co/cdD2S06XTj pic.twitter.com/eTCxkaDEzl

— ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2026

The actor-turned-politician was addressing supporters today amid heavy police deployment and strict entry regulations. According to sources, the deceased, who attended the meeting organised for party administrators as a spectator, suddenly collapsed.

Suraj was immediately rushed to Manima Hospital by those present at the venue, but was declared dead, reportedly due to a heart attack. Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident.

Meanwhile, addressing a gathering at an election rally in Seelanaickenpatti, Vijay accused the MK Stalin government of denying Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) permission to hold political rallies while granting permission to others. Vijay said he did not come to Salem merely to seek votes, but to seek justice.

He alleged that while other parties receive permission immediately upon request, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam is denied permission. “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 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?” Vijay said. (ANI)