Hyderabad Police have filed a chargesheet naming actor Allu Arjun and 22 others in connection with a stampede that occurred at the premiere of "Pushpa 2: The Rule" in December 2024. The incident, which took place at Sandhya Theatre in the RTC X Roads area of Hyderabad, resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and injuries to her young son.
The chargesheet, filed in a local court, lists Allu Arjun as Accused No. 11, while the Sandhya Theatre management is considered the primary accused. Others named in the chargesheet include members of Allu Arjun's personal staff and security team, event organizers, and theatre personnel.
According to police reports, the stampede occurred on December 4, 2024, as fans gathered to see Allu Arjun at the film's premiere. The massive crowd surge led to chaos, resulting in the tragic death and injuries. The police investigation revealed that inadequate crowd control measures and safety lapses by the theatre management and organizers contributed to the incident. Authorities also noted that the organizers did not obtain prior permission for Allu Arjun's appearance, further exacerbating the situation.
Allu Arjun has been charged with abetment, with police alleging that his sudden arrival, along with other "Pushpa 2" cast members, triggered the stampede. The chargesheet includes sections on culpable homicide not amounting to murder, negligence causing death, and endangering life.
In the aftermath of the stampede, Allu Arjun was arrested on December 13, 2024, and later granted interim bail by the Telangana High Court, followed by regular bail. He and the makers of "Pushpa" provided financial assistance to the victim's family. The Telangana government also announced support for the family.
The victim, identified as Revathi, was given CPR by police officers at the scene before being transported to a private hospital, where she died from her injuries. Her son, Sritej, was admitted to the intensive care unit and was on ventilator support for several months. He was later transferred to a neuro-rehabilitation facility for long-term treatment.
The filing of the chargesheet has ignited debate regarding celebrity responsibility during public appearances and the necessity for stricter regulations at film events. While fans have rallied in support of Allu Arjun, victims' rights advocates are demanding accountability. The court is expected to address the matter in the coming weeks.
