Allu Arjun's counsel cries foul over 'illegal detention' as 'Pushpa 2' actor makes first statement after release from jail

Allu Arjun, who was released from jail on Saturday, apologised to the family of the woman who died in the stampede once again before vouching he will fully cooperate with the ongoing probe. After being released from Hyderabad's Chanchalguda prison, where he spent a night, Allu Arjun thanked his fans before extending his condolence to the family of the late woman. 

FULL REPORT | Allu Arjun breaks silence after release from jail in ‘Pushpa 2’ stampede case

A 35-year-old woman died and her son was left critical due to the stampede at Hyderabad's Sandhya theatre on December 4 ahead of Pusha 2: The Rule premiere. The stampede occurred when Allu Arjun came to the theatre along with his security personnel. 

Why was Allu Arjun arrested?

A case was filed against the Sandhya Theatre management, the actor and his security team under sections 105 and 118(1) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) over the stampede incident. Sandhya Theatre's owner and two employees were also arrested in connection with the case.  "His (Allu Arjun) personal security team started pushing the public, which further aggravated the situation as there was already a huge gathering at the theatre. Taking advantage of this situation along with the actor and his security team, a large number of people entered the lower balcony area," the police had said.

The Telugu superstar was picked up from his home on Friday by a team from Chikkadpally police station. He was remanded to 14-day judicial custody by the trial court but the Telangana High Court granted interim bail. However, he had to spend the night in jail as the authorities didn't receive a copy of the bail order until late last night.

Last week, the actor announced Rs 25 lakh to the family of the deceased and also assured the grieving family that they are not alone and he will meet the family personally. Allu Arjun on December 11 approached the Telangana HC seeking to quash the FIR registered against him in connection with the death of a woman. However, it was not taken into consideration then. 

Allu Arjun's reaction after release and counsel's harsh remarks

On Saturday morning, Allu Arjun said he was sorry about the unfortunate development. "I want to thank all my fans. There is nothing to worry about. I would like to once again express my condolences to the family. It was an unfortunate incident. We are sorry for what happened," he said.

Meanwhile, the Pushpa series actor's counsel Ashok Reddy also reacted to the actor having to spend a night in prison despite getting bail from the High Court. He protested that it was an illegal detention and the prison authorities owe an explanation.

"You should question the government and the department why they have not released the accused. The High Court order is very specific. Forthwith, the moment you receive the order, they should release him. Despite the clear order, they have not released, they have to answer. This is an illegal detention. We will take legal steps," NDTV quoted Reddy as saying.