Indian actor Allu Arjun sent to 14-day judicial custody over stampede death case during Pushpa 2 premiere

A court on Friday sent popular Indian actor Allu Arjun to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the death of a woman in a stampede incident during the premiere of his latest release ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ in Hyderabad.

The stampede incident occurred at Sandhya theatre.

Earlier in the day, police arrived at the residence of the actor and took him and his bodyguard in custody.

Allu Arjun, one of the biggest actors in the country, who boasts of a strong fan base, was taken to Chikkadpally police station.

The case was registered at the police station.

Victim’s husband ready to withdraw case against Allu Arjun

Meanwhile, the victim’s husband said he is willing to withdraw the case since he does not hold the actor responsible for the stampede or the death of his wife.

The victim’s husband Bhaskar told reporters as quoted by Hindustan Times: “We only went to Sandhya Theatre that day because my son wanted to watch the movie. It’s not Allu Arjun’s fault that he visited the theatre that day.”

“I am ready to withdraw my case,” he said.

What happened at the theatre?

The chaos broke out at the Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad’s RTC Crossroads at around 10:30 pm on December 4 when a massive crowd rushed to the theatre to watch Allu Arjun in action. To everyone’s surprise, the actor was also present at the screening.

Revathi, 39, came to the theatre with her husband and two children from Dilsukhnagar to attend the premiere show.

Revathi was rushed to a hospital where she succumbed to her injuries while her young son, who was also wounded, is in critical condition at the clinic.

As per reports, the crowd barged into the theatre as Allu Arjun arrived.

A number of people tried to get in close proximity with the star who was guarded by heavy security.

Police also had to lathicharge to disperse the crowd that had turned unruly.

Later, Allu Arjun waved at his fans from the sun roof of his car where he was escorted safely by his security.

Allu Arjun grieved the woman’s death and announced a monetary support of INR 25 lakh (USD 29,481) for the family.

Allu posted on X, “Deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident at Sandhya Theatre. My heartfelt condolences go out to the grieving family during this unimaginably difficult time. I want to assure them they are not alone in this pain and will meet the family personally.

“While respecting their need for space to grieve, I stand committed to extend every possible assistance to help them navigate through this challenging journey.”