Following the attack, Mohan Babu was booked under under Section 118 (1)of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) initially. The police later altered to section 109 (attempt to murder) of BNS following the detailed statement of the reporter.
Published Dec 13, 2024 | 1:14 PM ⚊ Updated Dec 13, 2024 | 1:14 PM
Mohan Babu. (Wikimedia)
Actor Mohan Babu on Friday, 13 December, took to the social media platform X, to share an open letter to the TV 9 management, expressing his regret over his recent assault on the TV reporter at his residence in Jalpally on the outskirts of Hyderabad.
In the letter dated 12 December, the actor addressed the TV9 editor-in-chief, and the management, and wrote: “I am writing this letter to formally address the unfortunate incident that occurred recently, and to express my deep regret over the events that transpired. It pains me deeply that what started as a personal family dispute spiralled into a larger situation, causing distress not only to the esteemed TV9 family but also to the broader journalist fraternity.”
The alleged assault occurred when the media reached the actor’s residence to report on his ongoing family feud. According to the video of the incident, the TV9 reporter was questioning the actor regarding the same when the latter snatched the mike from the reporter and hit him on his head.
The actor’s aides later allegedly chased the media out resorting to using physical force.
Following the attack, Mohan Babu was booked under under Section 118 (1)of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) initially. The police later altered to section 109 (attempt to murder) of BNS following the detailed statement of the reporter.
According to an NDTV report, Mohan Babu and Vishnu approached the Telangana High Court on Wednesday challenging the notices issued to them, the court deferred the notices granting them exemption from appearance till 24 December.
Manoj appeared before the police commissioner on Wednesday and his statement was recorded and he submitted a bond of ₹ one lakh.
Reasoning the delay in response, he added, “Before proceeding, I would like to mention that due to health reasons, I was admitted to the hospital over the last 48 hours and was unable to respond Immediately. I appreciate your patience and am sending this letter at the earliest possible opportunity.”
“In the heat of the moment, when my gate was broken and approximately 30-50 individuals, comprising anti-social elements, forcibly barged into my house with an intent to harm those present, I lost my composure. Amidst this chaos, the media inadvertently became intertwined in the situation. As I tried to manage the situation, Mr. Ranjith, one of your journalists, unfortunately, sustained an injury. This was a deeply regrettable outcome, and I deeply regret the pain and inconvenience caused to him, his family, and the TV 9 community.”
Mohan Babu further apologised, “To Mr Ranjith and the entire TV 9 family, I sincerely apologize for my actions, which have caused pain and distress, and I extend my heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery. I deeply regret that my response in the charged moment has led to anguish for your esteemed organization and for Mr. Ranjith’s family.”
— Mohan Babu M (@themohanbabu) December 13, 2024
(Edited by Sumavarsha Kandula)
