Actor Vijay Deverakonda has been booked under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act for allegedly making derogatory remarks about tribal communities during a film event held earlier this year, police officials confirmed on Sunday.
Allegations and Complaint
The incident stems from a statement Deverakonda reportedly made in April during a pre-release event for the film Retro, which stars actor Surya. According to the police, Deverakonda allegedly compared the recent terror attack in Pahalgam to tribal wars that occurred 500 years ago. The comment sparked outrage, and a formal complaint was lodged by Nenavath Ashok Kumar Naik, also known as Ashok Rathod, who serves as the State President of the Joint Action Committee of Tribal Communities.
Rathod accused the actor of making racially insensitive remarks that equated tribal people with Pakistani terrorists, thereby hurting the sentiments of the Scheduled Tribe communities and insulting their historical legacy.
Case Registered and Investigation Underway
Following the complaint, a case under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was officially registered on June 17, police said. The case is currently under investigation, and further details are awaited.
Actor Issues Public Clarification
In response to the controversy, Vijay Deverakonda issued a public statement on May 3 via social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He expressed regret over the incident, stating that his intention was never to hurt or target any community, especially the Scheduled Tribes, whom he said he holds in high regard.
“If any part of my message was misunderstood or hurtful, I express my sincere regret. My only aim was to speak of peace, progress and togetherness. I remain committed to using my platform to uplift, unify—never divide,” Deverakonda wrote.
Summary
The case against Vijay Deverakonda highlights the increasing sensitivity around public statements made by celebrities, especially when they concern marginalized communities. While the actor has apologized, legal proceedings under the SC/ST Act are now in motion, and the matter remains under active police scrutiny.
