Actor Vijay Deverakonda has issued a public apology following a police complaint over his remarks made at the audio launch of the upcoming film Retro in Hyderabad. The complaint, filed by lawyer Lal Chauhan, alleges that Deverakonda made derogatory comments comparing terrorists to tribal communities from 500 years ago.

Addressing the backlash on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the actor expressed “sincere regret” and clarified that his comments were misinterpreted. “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,” he wrote.

Deverakonda explained that his comments were made in the context of urging unity and progress for all Indians. “I was speaking about how India is one, and how we must move forward together. In what world would I, while calling for unity, deliberately discriminate against any group of Indians — all of whom I see as my family?”

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Clarifying his use of the word “tribe,” the actor said it was used in its historical and dictionary sense, referring to early human societal structures. “It was never a reference to the Scheduled Tribes classification, which was formalised only in the mid-20th century,” he said.

The controversy stems from Deverakonda’s comments at the event, where he remarked on the Kashmir terror attack, saying, “They behave like tribals did 500 years ago, fighting without common sense.” The April 22 attack in Pahalgam claimed 28 lives and injured several others.

Concluding his statement, Deverakonda wrote, “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.”

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