Actor Vijay Deverakonda clarifies his remarks on Pahalgam attack and tribal communities

Telugu actor Vijay Deverakonda has issued a clarification following criticism on social media over his comments regarding the Pahalgam attack and his remarks on India's tribal communities.

The actor found himself embroiled in controversy after his statement at the audio launch of the film “Retro” was perceived as disrespectful to tribal groups.

Deverakonda’s comments about the Pahalgam attack, which occurred in Kashmir, were scrutinized for the way he referenced tribal communities in his remarks.

He had suggested that education and preventing indoctrination could be solutions to terrorism, and his statement, “What will they achieve? Kashmir belongs to India, and Kashmiris are ours. India doesn’t even need to attack Pakistan because Pakistanis themselves are fed up with their government and will attack them if this continues. They behave like tribals did 500 years ago, fighting without common sense,” leading to a formal complaint being filed against him under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

In response to the backlash, the actor issued a statement to clear the air and address the misunderstanding.

“It has come to my attention that a remark I made during the Retro audio launch event has caused concern among some members of the public. I wish to sincerely clarify: there was absolutely no intention to hurt or target any community, especially our Scheduled Tribes, who I deeply respect and consider an integral part of our country,” Deverakonda said.

He further explained his use of the term “tribe,” saying it was meant in a historical context.

“The word ‘tribe,’ as I used it, was meant in the historical and dictionary sense—referring to a time centuries ago when human society globally was organized into tribes and clans, often in conflict. It was never a reference to the Scheduled Tribes classification, which was introduced during colonial and post-colonial India and formalized only in the mid-20th century, not even 100 years ago,” he clarified.

Deverakonda reassured his audience that his intentions were never to alienate anyone, emphasizing unity and progress for India.

"I was speaking about unity, about how India is one, our people are one, and how we must move forward together. In what world would I, while urging us to stand united as a country, deliberately discriminate against any group of Indians—all of whom I see as my family, like my brothers," he added.

The actor expressed regret for any offense his words may have caused and reiterated his commitment to promoting peace, progress, and unity.

"If any part of my message was misunderstood or hurtful, I express my sincere regret. My only aim was to speak of peace, progress, and togetherness. I remain committed to using my platform to uplift and unify—never to divide," he concluded.

The complaint against Deverakonda was reportedly filed at the SR Nagar police station by Hyderabad lawyer Lal Chauhan.