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'No intention to hurt': Vijay Deverakonda apologises and defends his 'tribal' remark after backlash and legal action against him

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In the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, actor Vijay Deverakonda made a statement at a recent public event that drew sharp criticism and legal action. While expressing concern over terrorism in Kashmir and urging unity, the actor made a remark likening terrorist behaviour to that of ancient tribal conflicts, which was interpreted by many as derogatory towards tribal communities, and a police complaint was filed.

Vijay Deverakonda issues statement

After a police complaint was filed and a public apology was demanded, the Arjun Reddy actor issued a detailed public statement clarifying his intent and offering an apology. He explained that his comments were never meant to target or insult any community. According to him, he had used the term “tribal” in its historical and dictionary sense, to illustrate how primitive conflicts once shaped human society across the world — not as a reference to India’s Scheduled Tribes, whom he said he deeply respects and sees as an integral part of the country.


The actor further clarified that his aim was to speak about unity, progress, and peace. He emphasized that while talking about the importance of moving forward as one nation, it would make no sense for him to simultaneously discriminate against any group of fellow Indians. He reiterated that he views all communities as his own and would never knowingly hurt or divide.


Ending his statement on a conciliatory note, Deverakonda expressed regret to anyone who may have been hurt by his words and reaffirmed his commitment to use his platform to uplift and unify people rather than cause division.




What did Vijay Deverakonda say?
During his speech at the event, Vijay Deverakonda expressed deep sorrow over the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 28 tourists. He stated that providing proper education to terrorists could prevent them from being easily brainwashed. He likened their actions to senseless violence, comparing it to how tribal groups fought without logic or common sense 500 years ago.

Police complaint against Vijay Deverakonda
A police complaint has been filed against actor Vijay Deverakonda by Hyderabad-based lawyer Lal Chauhan over his comments at the 'Retro' pre-release event. The complaint alleges that his remarks comparing terrorists to tribal clashes were derogatory towards tribal communities. Tribal associations, including the TJAC, condemned the statement as disrespectful to their culture and demanded a public apology. They warned that failing to do so would deepen the hurt.
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