The Hyderabad Police has issued a show cause notice to the management of Sandhya Theatre, citing 11 lapses that allegedly led to the tragic death of a pregnant woman during a stampede at the premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule, featuring Telugu superstar Allu Arjun.
The incident occurred on December 4, when thousands of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor. The chaos left a 35-year-old woman dead and her eight-year-old son hospitalized in critical condition.
Theatre Management’s Lapses
The police notice, dated December 12, accuses the theatre management of negligence, including failing to:
- Inform local authorities about Allu Arjun’s arrival.
- Arrange proper entry, exit, and seating plans despite anticipating heavy crowds.
- Display clear signboards for entry and exit points.
- Secure permissions for large promotional “flexes” erected outside the theatre.
- Deploy adequate security at the main gates.
These lapses, the notice states, compromised public safety and contributed to the tragedy.
Legal and Administrative Action
The notice directs the theatre management to explain why its Cinematograph License should not be revoked. They have been given 10 days to respond, failing which further action will be taken without additional notice.
Following the incident, cases were registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Allu Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management.
Allu Arjun Arrested and Released on Bail
On December 13, Allu Arjun was arrested in connection with the case and released on interim bail by the Telangana High Court the following day. Three other individuals, including one of the theatre’s owners, a senior manager, and a lower balcony in-charge, were also arrested.
Child’s Condition Critical
The eight-year-old boy, identified as Sritej, remains in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) on mechanical ventilation. A medical bulletin released on Tuesday stated his vital parameters are stable, though his neurological status remains static. Doctors are planning a tracheostomy to aid his recovery.
Government and Police Response
Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand and Health Secretary Christina Z Chongthu visited the hospital to assess the boy’s condition. The government has assured full support for his treatment. “Whatever is required to save the boy and provide better treatment will be done,” said Anand.
This tragic incident has sparked widespread discussions about crowd management at public events and the accountability of organizers in ensuring safety.
Sources By Agencies
