December 13, 2024: Veteran actor Mohan Babu has publicly apologized after an incident involving a TV9 journalist during a property dispute with his son, Manchu Manoj, in Hyderabad. The actor expressed deep regret for his actions and the subsequent injury caused to the journalist, emphasizing that the situation had escalated beyond a personal family matter.
In a statement, Mohan Babu said, “I deeply regret the unfortunate incident that transpired recently. What began as a personal family dispute spiraled into something much larger, causing distress to both the journalist involved and the broader media community. I sincerely apologize for the pain and inconvenience caused.”
Mohan Babu Apologises Publicly
The confrontation took place earlier this week when Mohan Babu and Manchu Manoj, locked in a dispute over property, found themselves in a heated altercation. As the situation turned chaotic, the actor alleged that a group of 30 to 50 “anti-social elements” forcefully entered his residence, with an apparent intention to harm him. Amid the confusion, media personnel, including the injured journalist, inadvertently got involved.
The actor explained, “In the midst of the chaos, I lost my composure, and unfortunately, one of the journalists was injured. This is deeply regrettable, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I apologize to the journalist, his family, and the entire TV9 team.”
The apology came a day after a complaint was filed against Mohan Babu, which led to a case of attempted murder being registered. According to reports, the 35-year-old journalist had arrived at the actor’s home in Jalapalli to cover the property dispute. After an argument at the gate, Manchu Manoj entered the premises, followed by the journalist and his security team.
It was during this tense moment that the journalist asked Mohan Babu a question regarding the dispute. The actor reportedly became enraged, grabbing the microphone and using it to strike the reporter. Video footage from the incident shows the actor’s aggressive response.
The journalist sustained multiple fractures to his cheekbone and is undergoing medical treatment, including plastic surgery. He also reported that Mohan Babu had used abusive language during the confrontation.
The veteran actor, who was also injured and hospitalized for neck pain and high blood pressure, was discharged after receiving treatment.
The incident has sparked widespread concern within both the media and entertainment communities. Journalists have raised alarms about the safety of reporters covering sensitive stories, while the public awaits further legal proceedings related to the case.