Hyderabad : Actor Vijay Deverakonda has been booked under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act following his controversial remarks likening tribal behavior to terrorism, made during the pre-release event of the film Retro. The case was officially registered on June 17, according to a police statement shared with PTI.
📄 Complaint by Tribal Leader
The complaint was filed by Nenavath Ashok Kumar Naik, also known as Ashok Rathod, who serves as the State President of the Joint Action Committee of Tribal Communities. He alleged that Deverakonda’s remarks were racially insensitive and hurt the sentiments of tribal groups.
The actor had said:
“Asalu 500 years back tribals kokkutunnatu, veelu buddi lekunda, minimum common sense lekunda chese panulu.”
(They behave like tribals did 500 years ago, fighting without common sense).
Rathod accused the actor of comparing tribal people to terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, which he described as “deeply offensive and derogatory.”
🎙️ Vijay Deverakonda Issues Apology
Facing growing criticism on social media, Deverakonda posted a clarification on X (formerly Twitter), stating that his intention was never to target any community:
“There was absolutely no intention to hurt or target any community, especially our Scheduled Tribes, who I deeply respect and consider an integral part of our country.”
He further emphasized his message of unity and national solidarity, saying he regrets if his comments were misinterpreted:
“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.”
⚖️ Legal and Public Fallout
Though the remarks were made back in April, legal action followed only after public outrage and the official complaint. Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway.
This controversy comes amid increasing scrutiny of public figures over their remarks on social and cultural identities, especially those concerning marginalized communities.