Second Death Reported Near Vijay’s TVK Rally in Salem, Police Begin Probe

Tamil Nadu | 13 Feb 2026 A second death has been reported in connection with a rally organised by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay in Salem. Police said a 50-year-old porter worker, Murugan, from Mettur was found dead near the meeting venue after allegedly consuming poison mixed with alcohol. He had reportedly travelled to Salem on his own and left behind a letter mentioning family-related issues. According to officials, Murugan’s body was discovered in front of the meeting area. A case has been registered, and his body was sent for postmortem examination. Family members have reached Salem Government Hospital to complete the formalities. Police said further investigation is underway to understand the circumstances surrounding his death. The incident came as tensions rose at the rally venue after another man reportedly collapsed during the event. A scuffle broke out between journalists and cadres of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam when reporters were covering the situation. Journalists alleged they were threatened while doing their job, prompting police to step in and restore order. Police also confirmed the death of a 37-year-old man, Suraj, who allegedly suffered a heart attack during the rally. “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,” an officer said. Suraj, a silver-related worker from the Sevvaipettai area, is survived by his wife and a child. The rally was held amid heavy police deployment and strict entry checks, officials added. Second Death Reported Near Vijay’s TVK Rally in Salem, Police Begin Probe A second death has been reported in connection with a rally organised by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay in Salem. Police said a 50-year-old porter worker, Murugan, from Mettur was found dead near the meeting venue after allegedly consuming poison mixed with alcohol. He had reportedly travelled to Salem on his own and left behind a letter mentioning family-related issues. According to officials, Murugan’s body was discovered in front of the meeting area. A case has been registered, and his body was sent for postmortem examination. Family members have reached Salem Government Hospital to complete the formalities. Police said further investigation is underway to understand the circumstances surrounding his death. The incident came as tensions rose at the rally venue after another man reportedly collapsed during the event. A scuffle broke out between journalists and cadres of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam when reporters were covering the situation. Journalists alleged they were threatened while doing their job, prompting police to step in and restore order. Police also confirmed the death of a 37-year-old man, Suraj, who allegedly suffered a heart attack during the rally. “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,” an officer said. Suraj, a silver-related worker from the Sevvaipettai area, is survived by his wife and a child. The rally was held amid heavy police deployment and strict entry checks, officials added.