Vijay Deverakonda Faces FIR Under SC/ST Act Over Remarks at ‘Retro’ Event

Popular actor Vijay Deverakonda has landed in legal trouble following comments made during the pre-release event of Retro, the upcoming film featuring Tamil superstar Suriya. A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged at Hyderabad’s Raidurgam Police Station, invoking provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The controversy was triggered by Vijay’s remarks referencing the recent Pahalgam terror attack. While drawing a parallel with outdated methods of warfare, he allegedly used the term “tribals from 500 years ago,” a phrase that sparked immediate backlash from tribal rights groups who deemed the comment hurtful and inappropriate.

The Tribal Joint Action Committee strongly objected to the language used and demanded an unconditional apology. The actor soon took to social media to issue a clarification, emphasizing that his intent was not to demean or target India’s tribal communities. He explained that the word “tribals” was meant in a historical, global context, relating to early forms of combat — not to any present-day Indian community. He also expressed his sincere regret if his words caused offense.

Despite the clarification, pressure from activist groups led to a formal police complaint. Authorities at Raidurgam Police Station have registered the case and begun an official investigation.

On the professional front, Vijay Deverakonda is gearing up for his next film Kingdom, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri. The project also stars Bhagyashri Borse and features music by Anirudh Ravichander. An official release date is expected to be announced soon.

The current incident highlights the growing sensitivity surrounding public figures’ statements and the importance of responsible communication in public forums.