Vijay Deverakonda issues clarification after comments at Retro event have gone viral: 'There was absolutely no intention to hurt...'

At the event, Deverakonda made an emotional speech connecting directly to the Pahalgam incident and how education is a remedy to terrorism in the long run.

Actor Vijay Deverakonda is caught in a legal mess after a lawyer in Hyderabad filed a police complaint against him for allegedly making derogatory comments against tribal people. The allegation relates to the comments the actor made in a pre-release event of Retro, a Suriya-starrer.

What did Vijay say?

At the event, Deverakonda made an emotional speech connecting directly to the Pahalgam incident and how education is a remedy to terrorism in the long run. "The only way to stop what’s happening in Kashmir is to teach these people (terrorists) not to be brainwashed, and not let them be brainwashed. What will they achieve? Kashmir is ours, belongs to India, and Kashmiris are ours,” he said.

The dispute has generated a flurry of public outrage, with social media and community leaders considering the implications of public statements made by celebrities.

VD issues apology

Vijay took to his social media profile to share a clarification. He wrote, "It has come to my attention that a remark I made during the Retro audio launch event has caused concern among some members of the public. I wish to sincerely clarify: 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."

https://x.com/thedeverakonda/status/1918547732970782776?s=48

He further added, "According to the English dictionary, "tribe" means, "A social division in a traditional society consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious, or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect." 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 and unify never to divide."

Lal Chauhan, a lawyer, approached the SR Nagar police stating the comments made by Deverakonda in relation to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam were insulting to tribal communities, Telangana Today reported. According to Chauhan, the actor also compared violence in Kashmir to ancient enmity between tribal communities, and this comparison has drawn criticism.

Also read: Sonu Nigam faces Police complaint by Pro-Kannada group after his comment on Pahalgam attack during Bengaluru concert

Tribal groups have said they are deeply offended by the actor’s comments, which they say denigrated and distorted their history. Several associations have now called for a public apology from Deverakonda and for the authorities to act.

"Action is being taken in this regard, and the case is being considered given legal consultations," Police said in reply to the complaint. Necessary action as per law shall be taken after seeking legal opinion,” a statement said.