A formal FIR was registered today against actor Vijay Deverakonda under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act at Raidurgam Police Station in Hyderabad. The case pertains to remarks he made during the pre-release event of Suriya’s upcoming film Retro, which sparked strong backlash from tribal organisations.
The controversy began when Vijay, while speaking about the recent Pahalgam terror attack, described the attackers as “tribals from 500 years ago, fighting without common sense.” His comments were widely criticised by tribal communities, who found the comparison offensive and derogatory.
The Tribal Joint Action Committee condemned the statement and demanded a public apology. In response, Vijay issued a clarification on social media, stating that he had no intention to insult or target India’s Scheduled Tribes. He explained that his use of the term “tribals” referred to ancient tribal warfare in a global and historical context, not to any community in India. He also expressed regret for any unintentional hurt caused.
Despite his apology, the FIR was officially filed, and the Raidurgam Police have initiated a formal investigation into the matter.
Meanwhile, Vijay’s next film, Kingdom, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, is awaiting an official release date. The film features Bhagyashri Borse as the female lead, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.