At least 31 people have been killed and more than 50 injured at a rally held by Tamil actor Vijay, who is campaigning for election, state officials say.

"Thirty-one people died with more than 50 people now hospitalised," said V Selvaraj, a senior police official in the district of Karur in Tamil Nadu, where the incident occurred.

Large crowds had gathered for the meeting, part of Vijay's ongoing state tour for his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

Vijay, who is a well-known actor and goes by only one name, launched a political party last year and began campaigning this month ahead of state elections that are to be held early next year.

State MP Senthil Balaji told reporters that 58 people were hospitalised after what he said was a stampede.

He added that Tamil Nadu Chief Minis

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