MK Stalin Defends Air Show Arrangements Amid Opposition Criticism Over Deaths

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin defended the government's handling of the IAF Air Show after opposition parties blamed mismanagement for five deaths. Stalin emphasized that all arrangements were made per IAF requirements, but acknowledged crowding issues. Opposition leaders, however, cited inadequate public safety and transport as the cause. Stalin announced compensation for the victims' families and pledged better planning for future events.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin responded on Monday to opposition accusations of mismanagement after five people died at the Indian Air Force (IAF) Air Show held on Chennai's Marina Beach. The air show marked the 92nd anniversary of the IAF, and the deaths, attributed to extreme heat and exhaustion, sparked criticism from opposition parties, including the AIADMK and BJP.

Stalin stated that the state government had made all necessary arrangements in coordination with various departments, such as the Fire and Rescue Service, Police Department, Chennai Corporation, and Health Department, to ensure the event ran smoothly. He acknowledged the overcrowding and logistical difficulties faced by the public but assured that better arrangements would be made for future large-scale events.

The opposition, however, blamed the deaths on poor planning and lack of basic facilities. AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan criticized the DMK government, alleging that the administration failed to ensure public safety, while BJP Tamil Nadu Chief K Annamalai pointed to the absence of adequate transport and safety measures for the large crowds.

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Stalin expressed his grief over the deaths and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakhs for the victims' families. He added that lessons would be learned to prevent such incidents in future events.