9-year-old boy injured during 'Pushpa 2' screening critical, remains on ventilator

Hyderabad: A nine-year-old boy injured in a stampede during the premiere of Telugu superstar Allu Arjun's latest film, Pushpa 2, continues to be critical, officials confirmed on Tuesday.  On December 4, his mother Revathi had died during the stampede-like situation at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad. The incident occurred as thousands of fans jostled to get a glimpse of actor Allu Arjun at the premiere of 'Pushpa 2'.  

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner CV Anand and Telangana Government Health Secretary Dr Christina visited KIMS Hospital on behalf of the state government to check on the boy, Sri Tej. Speaking to the media, Commissioner Anand explained that Sri Tej suffered brain damage due to a lack of oxygen during the stampede. The boy remains on ventilator support, with doctors indicating a prolonged course of treatment ahead. Dr Christina assured that the government is monitoring Sri Tej's condition closely and expressed hope for his recovery.

A medical bulletin from KIMS Hospital stated:
"Child Sritej continues to remain in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), requiring mechanical ventilation with minimal oxygen support. His fever is subsiding, and he is on minimal inotropes. Vital parameters are stable, and he is tolerating feeds well. Given his static neurological status, a tracheostomy is being planned to facilitate weaning from the ventilator."

Showcause notice to Sandhya Theatre

Hyderabad police have issued a show-cause notice to Sandhya Theatre management for alleged lapses contributing to the tragedy. Dated 12 December, the notice highlights 11 key failings, including the management’s failure to notify local police of Allu Arjun’s arrival on the night of 4 December.

The notice also cited the lack of proper entry, exit, and seating arrangements despite anticipating a large crowd. It criticised the management for illegally erecting large promotional banners outside the theatre, which encouraged public gatherings, and for failing to provide adequate security at the main gates.

The notice further questioned the theatre's commitment to public safety, directing the management to explain why its Cinematograph Licence should not be revoked. A 10-day response period was provided, failing which further action will be taken without additional notice.

Following the incident, Hyderabad police registered a case against Allu Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Chikkadpally police station. This action was based on a complaint filed by Revathi’s family.

Allu Arjun, who was arrested on 13 December, was granted interim bail by the Telangana High Court and released the following morning. Three others were also arrested in connection with the case: a theatre owner, the senior manager, and the lower balcony in charge.