Hyderabad, April 10: Veteran Telugu actor Manchu Mohan Babu received significant legal relief on Friday as the Telangana High Court granted him anticipatory bail in the high-profile case involving alleged assault on a film journalism student.
Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy issued the order after hearing arguments from both sides. Mohan Babu, 71, faces charges under IPC sections for criminal intimidation, voluntarily causing hurt, and criminal conspiracy following a complaint by Karthik, a postgraduate student at Hyderabad’s Ramanaidu Film School.
Incident Timeline
The altercation occurred September 29, 2024, at Mohan Babu’s residence. Karthik alleged the actor slapped him repeatedly and used abusive language during a heated exchange over an interview. Police registered FIR October 11 after medical examination confirmed injuries.
Mohan Babu’s counsel argued self-defence and lack of intent. “Student entered aggressively, abusing family. No kidnapping occurred—false narrative,” lawyer N. Rajasekhar told court. They submitted CCTV footage showing confrontation.
Court Conditions
Bail comes with strict terms:
- ₹10,000 personal bond
- No threats or influence on witnesses
- Daily police station reporting
- Cooperation with investigation
Student Karthik welcomed the order but stood firm. “Justice must prevail. Bail doesn’t mean innocence,” he posted on X, supported by student unions.
Family Feud Context
Case stems from Mohan Babu’s rift with son Manchu Vishnu and Lakshmi over Lakshmi Prasanna’s film school operations. Earlier police complaint accused Vishnu of trespassing.
Mohan Babu apologised publicly October 2024, citing stress. “Handled poorly. Deeply regret if hurt caused,” he stated. Family reconciliation efforts reportedly stalled.
Public and Industry Reaction
Fans celebrated outside court. “Manchu garu innocent. Truth prevails,” chanted supporters. Film industry divided—friends like Balakrishna backed him; others urged settlement.
Legal experts contextualised. “Anticipatory bail shows weak initial case. Investigation key now,” noted senior advocate Udaya Shankar.
Police investigation continues with forensic analysis of footage. Chargesheet expected within 60 days.
Next hearing set for May 15. Co-accused Lakshmi Manchu granted regular bail earlier.
Broader Implications
This legal breather ends Mohan Babu’s six-month ordeal, allowing focus on films like Khaidhi 2. Yet family rift and public image damage linger.
Mohan Babu’s bail victory marks turning point in explosive celebrity-student clash, highlighting tensions between film industry power and youth rights while family reconciliation remains distant.
