Telugu actor Allu Arjun questioned in Hyderabad theatre stampede case
PTC Web Desk: Telugu superstar Allu Arjun faced questioning by the Hyderabad Police on Tuesday regarding a tragic stampede at Sandhya Theatre earlier this month, which resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and left her eight-year-old child critically injured. The actor, 41, was summoned to join the investigation on Monday.
Key questions posed to Allu Arjun included: Were you aware that police had denied permission for you to attend the premiere? Who decided to proceed with your appearance despite the lack of police approval? Did any officer inform you about the stampede outside the venue? When were you notified about the woman's death?
Sources close to the investigation have revealed that the probe focuses on whether Arjun had prior permission to appear at the theatre and engage with fans in a densely populated neighbourhood known for its cinemas.
The incident, which occurred during a special screening of Allu Arjun's film, sparked chaos as hundreds of fans gathered, leading to the fatal stampede. The police claim the actor's unannounced arrival at 9.30 pm and impromptu interaction with fans outside the venue worsened the situation. The actor reportedly entered the theatre amidst the commotion, while bouncers and his security team attempted to control the crowd.
Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand accused the bouncers of "reckless behaviour," alleging they prioritised . Arjun's security over public safety.
The victim, identified as Revathi, was rescued along with her child by the police and provided emergency first aid before being rushed to a hospital. Tragically, Revathi succumbed to her injuries.
Allu Arjun was arrested on December 13, nine days after the incident, and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. However, in a significant turn of events, the Telangana High Court granted him interim bail, citing his fundamental right to liberty and expressing concerns over potential police overreach. "An actor cannot be subjected to such treatment just because of their profession," the court remarked.
Allu Arjun has denied allegations of responsibility for the tragedy, calling the incident "unfortunate" and condemning what he described as "misinformation and character assassination" during a press conference on Saturday.
- With inputs from agencies
