Senior actor and former MP Manchu Mohan Babu appears to have realized that he may face arrest by the Telangana police in connection with the attack on a TV9 journalist who sustained grievous injuries.
The Pahadishareef police initially booked a case against Mohan Babu under Section 188 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanahita (BNS) Act, based on the medical report of the injured journalist.
However, the case was later escalated to Section 109 of the BNS, which pertains to an attempt to murder.
Although Mohan Babu released a video message on Thursday night expressing regret over the incident that took place at his residence a few days ago, he also defended his actions, claiming he acted in self-defense against intruders.
However, after being informed by his legal team that the attempt to murder charge is serious and could lead to his arrest, Mohan Babu issued an apology to the injured TV9 journalist.
In a formal letter addressed to the TV9 management, Editor-in-Chief, and staff, Mohan Babu expressed his deep regret over the incident.
“It pains me deeply that what started as a personal family dispute spiraled into a larger situation, causing distress not only to the esteemed TV9 family but also to the broader journalist fraternity,” he wrote.
The veteran actor explained that due to health reasons, he had been hospitalized for the past 48 hours, which delayed his response.
"I appreciate your patience and am sending this letter at the earliest possible opportunity," he stated.
Recounting the events, Mohan Babu said that in the heat of the moment, approximately 30-50 individuals, including anti-social elements, forcibly entered his residence, breaking the gate and intending to harm those inside.
"Amidst this chaos, the media inadvertently became entangled in the situation, and Mr. Ranjith, one of your journalists, unfortunately sustained an injury," he explained.
"This was a deeply regrettable outcome, and I sincerely apologize for the pain and inconvenience caused to Mr. Ranjith, his family, and the TV9 community," he added.
Mohan Babu extended his heartfelt wishes for the journalist's speedy recovery and expressed regret that his response in a charged moment caused anguish to the TV9 organization and the journalist's family.
Despite his apology, sources indicate that it may not absolve Mohan Babu of legal consequences.
He may still face arrest unless the complainant withdraws the petition and informs the court of his acceptance of the apology.
Additionally, Mohan Babu is expected to seek anticipatory bail to avoid arrest, the sources added.