The main character of the film Pushpa 2, Allu Arjun, has been the focal point of the controversy after a stampede broke out in Hyderabad’s Sandhya Theatre during his film’s special screening, claiming the life of one woman and her teen son. While six members of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OU-JAC) allegedly vandalized actor Allu Arjun’s residence in Hills, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s scorching remarks pound an alleged hint at Congress’ connections behind the incident.
As reported by the Republic World, the BJP has hinted at a Congress link in the attack on Allu Arjun’s home in Hyderabad on Sunday. The former has claimed that the latter has orchestrated the attack with the assistance of the goons. Labelling this attack as ‘state-sponsored terrorism,’ BJP has said that the Pushpa 2 actor was targeted because he had refused to campaign for Congress.
Amid these hits by BJP, a photo of one of the rioters has taken a significant round on the internet, with the Chief Minister of Telangana, Revanth Reddy. As per reports, the attacks were reportedly organized by goons linked to the Indian National Congress.
Meanwhile, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy allegedly accused the actor of ignoring the police warnings and conducting roadshows at RTC X Road, resulting in overcrowding and havoc. The chief minister said, “The actor refused to leave despite requests from the police. Even when leaving, he climbed onto his car roof and waved to fans, triggering more chaos.”
He, however, condemned the act of vandalism in a post on X in Telugu: “I am directing the state DGP and city police commissioner to take strict action regarding law and order. No laxity will be tolerated in this regard. Senior officials should take precautions to prevent police personnel who are not involved in the Sandhya Theater incident from responding,” he wrote.
The incident unfolded around 4:45 pm when a group of protesters gathered outside the residence of a prominent actor, holding placards and chanting slogans. Tensions escalated when one protester scaled the compound wall and began hurling tomatoes onto the property. Other demonstrators reportedly assaulted security personnel and vandalized the area, breaking flower pots and damaging plants along the ramp. Footage from the scene revealed shattered glass and signs of widespread destruction. Nearby residents described the situation as chaotic, with the protest turning increasingly violent. The protesters also demanded ₹1 crore compensation for the actor’s family.
The Jubilee Hills Police responded quickly, arresting six individuals linked to the OU-JAC for their involvement in the protest. A police spokesperson stated, “The protesters began chanting slogans and throwing tomatoes. When security personnel intervened, they were assaulted, and the property was damaged.” The detained individuals were questioned and later granted bail.
In response to the allegations, Allu Arjun extended his condolences for the tragedy but firmly denied any wrongdoing. “I deeply apologize for the incident but want to clarify that I had no direct involvement. This incident is devastating for me,” the actor stated. He also addressed misinformation surrounding the tragedy, calling it an attempt at “character assassination.” “I haven’t even watched my film in the theater despite working on it for three years,” he added.
