Hyderabad Police Summon Allu Arjun Over ‘Pushpa 2’ Screening Stampede Incident
Actor Allu Arjun Appears for Police Inquiry
Hyderabad: Renowned actor Allu Arjun appeared at the Chikkadpally Police Station today in connection with the tragic stampede during the screening of his film Pushpa 2. The incident, which claimed the life of a woman and critically injured her son, remains under intense investigation.
Allu Arjun’s Arrest and High Court Intervention
The 41-year-old actor was arrested last week from his Jubilee Hills residence amid dramatic circumstances. Arjun alleged that police followed him into his bedroom while he was changing clothes. Following his arrest, a lower court remanded him to 14 days in jail. However, the Telangana High Court swiftly intervened, granting him interim bail and emphasizing his right to liberty. The court also criticized the police’s handling of the case.
Conflicting Claims Over Stampede Responsibility
The past week has seen heated exchanges between Allu Arjun’s representatives and the police. Authorities alleged that the actor’s unannounced arrival triggered the chaos. In contrast, Arjun’s camp refuted these claims, stating that no official warnings were given and that his team had informed authorities beforehand. The police countered, saying neither the actor’s team nor the theatre management provided proper details.
CCTV Footage Raises Further Questions
Recently released CCTV footage shows police escorting Allu Arjun from the theatre’s rear entrance. This footage emerged after allegations that the actor refused to leave the premises despite the unfolding tragedy. Police also accused Arjun of inciting the crowd by waving from the sunroof of his car.
Allu Arjun’s Clarification
Allu Arjun denied these accusations, stating, “It was not a roadshow or procession. I just waved to my fans and proceeded inside the theatre. No police officer asked me to leave. My manager informed me about the uncontrollable crowd, and I left immediately.”
Legal Charges and Arrests
The actor, along with his security team and the theatre management, faces charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Six individuals, including the theatre owner and staff, were arrested but have since been released on bail.
Public Outrage and Divided Opinions
Public sentiment remains divided. Protests erupted outside Allu Arjun’s home on Sunday, with demonstrators vandalizing property and chanting slogans. However, in a surprising turn, the victim’s husband publicly stated he does not blame the actor for the tragedy and is willing to withdraw the police case.
Financial Aid and Support
Allu Arjun announced financial assistance of ₹ 25 lakh for the victim’s family. Additionally, the producers of Pushpa 2: The Rise pledged an additional ₹ 50 lakh to support the grieving family.
The Road Ahead
As the investigation continues, the case raises broader concerns about crowd management, public safety during high-profile events, and accountability. The Hyderabad police are expected to present their findings soon, and Allu Arjun remains under scrutiny as the legal process unfolds.