In a significant legal development, prominent members of the Daggubati family—renowned figures in the Telugu film industry—have been booked by Hyderabad police following a court directive. The individuals named in the First Information Report (FIR) include actor Venkatesh Daggubati, his nephew and actor Rana Daggubati, producer D. Suresh Babu, and Rana’s brother, Abhiram Daggubati. The charges pertain to the alleged illegal demolition of the Deccan Kitchen Hotel, a property leased to businessman Nanda Kumar, who is also an accused in a separate political scandal involving the alleged poaching of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLAs.
Background of the Dispute
The origins of this legal tussle trace back to 2014 when Nanda Kumar entered into a lease agreement with the Daggubati family for a property situated in Hyderabad’s Film Nagar area. Kumar established the Deccan Kitchen Hotel on the leased premises and claims to have invested substantial sums in its development. Over time, multiple lease deeds were executed between the parties. However, disputes arose when the Daggubati family allegedly sought to evict Kumar before the lease term concluded. In response, Kumar secured an interim injunction from the City Civil Court in 2018, which was extended periodically to prevent eviction.
Allegations of Illegal Demolition
Despite the standing court orders, Kumar alleges that in January 2024, while he was in judicial custody for an unrelated case, the Daggubati family, accompanied by unidentified individuals, forcibly entered the property and demolished the hotel structure. He further contends that this act resulted in damages estimated at ₹20 crore. Kumar’s complaints to the local police and higher authorities reportedly went unheeded, prompting him to file a private complaint in the Nampally court. The court, upon reviewing the allegations, directed the Film Nagar police to register a case and conduct a thorough investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Acting on the court’s directive, the Film Nagar police registered the FIR on January 11, 2025. The charges against the Daggubati family members include criminal conspiracy, house trespass, and other related offenses under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The specific sections invoked are 448 (house trespass), 452 (house trespass after preparation for hurt, assault, or wrongful restraint), 458 (lurking house-trespass or house-breaking by night after preparation for hurt, assault, or wrongful restraint), and 120B (criminal conspiracy).
Venkatesh, Rana Daggubati, & Suresh Babu Booked For ‘Theft’
The inclusion of high-profile personalities like Venkatesh and Rana Daggubati in the FIR has garnered significant media attention. Both actors are celebrated figures in the Telugu film industry, with substantial fan followings. Producer Suresh Babu, a veteran in the industry, and his younger son Abhiram are also well-known. The allegations have raised questions about the intersection of celebrity status and legal accountability.
Implications for the Telugu Film Industry
The legal entanglement of the Daggubati family comes at a time when the Telugu film industry is under scrutiny for various controversies. The involvement of such prominent figures in a legal dispute may have repercussions on their professional engagements and the industry’s public image. It also underscores the importance of legal compliance in property disputes, irrespective of one’s stature.
Current Status and Next Steps
As of now, the investigation is underway, with the Film Nagar police expected to gather evidence, record statements, and possibly make arrests if deemed necessary. The accused have the option to seek anticipatory bail to avoid arrest during the investigation. Legal experts suggest that the case could lead to prolonged litigation, given the serious nature of the charges and the high-profile individuals involved.
Public and Media Reaction
The news has elicited varied reactions from the public and media. Fans of the actors have expressed shock and disbelief, while others call for a fair investigation to uphold the rule of law. Media outlets are closely monitoring the developments, providing extensive coverage and analysis. The case has also sparked discussions on social media platforms, with users debating the merits of the allegations and the potential impact on the individuals’ careers.
Conclusion
The booking of Venkatesh, Rana Daggubati, Suresh Babu, and Abhiram Daggubati in a case involving allegations of illegal demolition and theft marks a significant episode in the Telugu film industry’s recent history. As the legal process unfolds, it will be imperative to observe how the case progresses and what implications it may have for the individuals involved and the broader entertainment community. The situation serves as a reminder of the legal obligations that all citizens, regardless of their public standing, must adhere to, especially in matters concerning property rights and judicial orders.
