Sat Dec 21 10:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Telangana CM Blames Allu Arjun for Stampede, Bans Benefit Shows
Hyderabad, India – Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has blamed actor Allu Arjun for a stampede at Sandhya Theater during the premiere of “Pushpa 2,” resulting in the death of a female fan and serious injuries to others, including Sri Tej who remains in critical condition. The CM announced a ban on benefit shows and increased ticket prices in the state, stating that the film industry will receive no special concessions under his leadership.
Addressing the assembly, Reddy criticized Allu Arjun’s actions, alleging that despite police denying permission, the actor appeared at the theater and waved to fans from his car’s sunroof, inciting a large crowd. He further stated that despite police urging Allu Arjun to leave due to the escalating situation, the actor continued to engage with the crowd, leading to the tragic stampede. Reddy also highlighted the lack of support shown to the injured Sri Tej, whose medical expenses are now being covered by the government and a 25 lakh rupee donation from the state.
The incident sparked outrage, with the CM expressing his anger at the lack of concern shown by the film industry towards the victim’s family. He stated that while the industry benefits from the state, it will not tolerate such incidents, further emphasizing his firm stance against providing any special treatment to the film industry in the future. The government has pledged to cover the medical expenses of Sri Tej, and the Cinematography Minister, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, is set to visit him at KIMS Hospital. The CM’s comments have ignited a heated debate within the Tollywood film industry. The incident also follows news of a Supreme Court ruling expected to increase interest burdens on late credit card payments. Other unrelated news includes Barack Obama’s movie preferences as shared by Rana Daggubati and a guide on how to scan QR codes without additional apps.
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