Investigation into Pushpa 2 Premiere Stampede Names Allu Arjun Among Accused

A charge sheet has been filed by the Chikkadpally police naming actor Allu Arjun among 23 individuals accused in connection with a tragic stampede that occurred during the premiere of *Pushpa 2* at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad on December 4, 2024. The incident resulted in the death of 35-year-old M. Revathi and left her nine-year-old son, Sritej, critically injured.

The Hindu

The charge sheet, submitted on December 24, 2025, identifies Allu Arjun as accused number 11, alongside his personal security staff and theatre management. Other accused include theatre partners Agamati Ram Reddy (owner), M. Sandeep, M. Sumeeth, and several others associated with the event, including security personnel and event organizers. Of the 23 accused, 14 were arrested during the investigation, while nine secured anticipatory bail.

The Hindu

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar indicated that the investigation revealed significant lapses in planning, crowd control, and security arrangements, implicating the theatre management, event organizers, and private security personnel in the incident.

The Hindu

Sritej, who was severely injured in the stampede, was admitted to KIMS Hospital in Secunderabad in a semi-conscious state with dangerously low oxygen levels. He was placed on ventilator support in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for over four months before being discharged on April 29, 2025. Following his discharge, Sritej was transferred to a neuro-rehabilitation facility in Hyderabad for ongoing treatment. The family attended the screening primarily because Sritej was a devoted fan of Allu Arjun.

The Hindu

An official close to the investigation stated, “The investigation has been completed with all the evidence on record, and the final report has been filed before the court. The legal process will now take its course.” This statement underscores the procedural progression following the tragic event.

The Hindu

The incident has drawn criticism regarding the adequacy of safety measures at public events, particularly those involving large crowds. Critics have raised concerns about the responsibilities of event organizers and venue management in ensuring the safety of attendees.

The Hindu

While the charge sheet details the involvement of multiple parties, there are no reports indicating the specific measures that will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, the exact circumstances leading to the stampede remain unclear, with various accounts of crowd dynamics and security protocols.

The Hindu

• “The investigation has been completed with all the evidence on record, and the final report has been filed before the court. The legal process will now take its course,” — Official close to the investigation.

The Hindu

This ongoing case highlights the critical need for enhanced safety protocols at public events to prevent future tragedies.

The Hindu