Police have confirmed an FIR against Vijay Deverakonda. The case falls under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. It follows remarks made by the actor during the pre-release event of the film Retro in April 2025.
The complainant, Ashok Rathod, leads the Joint Action Committee of Tribal Communities. He accused the actor of making a comparison that insulted tribal people. Rathod alleged that Deverakonda likened tribals to terrorists during his speech.
During the event, Deverakonda spoke about terrorism in Kashmir. He said,
“Asalu 500 years back tribals kokkutunnatu, veelu buddhi lekunda, minimum common sense lekunda chese panulu.”
(They behave like tribals did 500 years ago, without sense or common sense.)
The line quickly drew backlash from tribal groups. Rathod called it racially offensive and harmful to tribal dignity.
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On May 3, Deverakonda addressed the controversy. He posted on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote:
“There was absolutely no intention to hurt or target any community, especially Scheduled Tribes. If my words were misunderstood, I express sincere regret.”
He also stated that his goal was to promote peace, progress, and unity.
Police filed the FIR on June 17, 2025. The case is now under investigation. No arrest has been made yet. Authorities say they are reviewing event footage and the complaint in detail.
Vijay Deverakonda has not commented since the FIR. His legal team has not issued a statement. The case may take time, but it has reignited a conversation around celebrity speech and social responsibility
Despite the controversy, Vijay Deverakonda continues to stay busy with multiple projects. He will next be seen in the action thriller Jana Gana Mana, directed by Puri Jagannadh. The film promises high-octane sequences and patriotic themes. He is also working on a romantic drama alongside Rashmika Mandanna, which has already generated strong buzz on social media. Industry experts believe his upcoming films could help shift the public focus back to his work.