Actor Allu Arjun did not appear in person before the Nampally Criminal Court in Hyderabad on June 22 in connection with the Sandhya Theatre stampede case. Through his legal representatives, the actor informed the court that he was in Mumbai for a film commitment and sought exemption from personal attendance.
His counsel stated that he would participate in future proceedings through video conferencing. Following the request, the court advised the defence to submit the necessary memo and adjourned the matter to July 6.
While Allu Arjun was absent, the remaining accused appeared before the court in response to summons issued earlier. The actor has been named as Accused No. 11 in the case arising from the tragic incident during a special screening of ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ in December 2024.
The stampede occurred when large crowds gathered at Sandhya Theatre following the actor’s arrival for the premiere. A woman named Revathi lost her life in the incident, while her son sustained serious injuries. Authorities subsequently registered a case against the theatre management, members of the actor’s team, and others connected to the event.
A total of 23 individuals have been named in the chargesheet, including theatre officials and security personnel. Investigators later questioned Allu Arjun as part of the probe and examined CCTV footage related to the incident.
The actor was arrested in December 2024 and briefly remanded to judicial custody before securing interim relief from the High Court. He was later granted regular bail by the trial court. Proceedings in the case are expected to move forward once all accused formally appear before the court.