Fri Dec 13 10:43:30 UTC 2024: **Tollywood Superstar Allu Arjun Arrested in Stampede Death Case**

HYDERABAD, INDIA – Popular Telugu actor Allu Arjun was arrested Friday by Hyderabad police in connection with the death of a 35-year-old woman during a stampede at the premiere of his film, “Pushpa 2: The Rule.” The incident occurred on December 4th at Sandhya Theatre, where a large crowd gathered, resulting in the woman’s death and the hospitalization of her nine-year-old son due to asphyxiation.

Police from the Chikkadpally station took Arjun into custody at his Jubilee Hills residence and transported him to the station for questioning. The arrest follows a complaint filed by the victim’s family and an FIR registered against Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management under sections 105 and 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), relating to culpable homicide and voluntarily causing hurt.

Arjun’s arrest sparked immediate reactions. While some expressed sympathy for the victims, others criticized the police action, arguing that Arjun shouldn’t bear sole responsibility for the security protocols at the theatre. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stated that the government had no role in the case, while BJP leader Bandi Sanjay condemned the arrest, citing mismanagement and disrespect towards the actor. K.T. Rama Rao, working president of the Bharatiya Rashtra Samithi, also criticized the arrest, calling it a display of the rulers’ insecurity.

A letter from Sandhya Theatre management requesting police security for the premiere has surfaced. The letter highlighted the anticipated large crowd due to the film’s release and the presence of the film’s stars.

Arjun subsequently appeared before the Nampally court following a medical examination. His lawyers have filed a quash petition with the Telangana High Court, challenging the arrest. The High Court hearing has been adjourned. The actor’s family, including his father, brother, and father-in-law, were seen at the police station throughout the day. A large gathering of supportive fans also assembled outside the police station. The situation remains tense as the legal proceedings continue.

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