TDP MLA Denies Jr NTR Insult After Viral Audio Sparks Fan Protests

A controversy erupted in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, after a purported audio clip of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) legislator D Venkateswara Prasad went viral, allegedly showing him insulting popular actor Jr NTR and calling for a boycott of his latest film, War 2.

Protests erupt in Anantapur as TDP MLA D Venkateswara Prasad denies insulting actor Jr NTR in viral audio clip.

The clip, widely circulated on social media, allegedly captured the MLA asserting his influence over the film's screening, with remarks such as, “The cinema won’t run. Without my word, the cinema won’t run. I am Anantapur MLA.” The conversation, directed toward a fan, reportedly repeated this assertion multiple times.

Outraged by the audio, Jr NTR fans gathered outside Prasad’s residence, raising slogans, tearing down his flex boards, and demanding a public apology. The protests highlighted the actor’s strong fan base and the sensitivity around celebrity remarks in Andhra Pradesh.

In response, MLA Prasad released a video statement refuting the allegations. “I have always admired the Nandamuri family and watched Balakrishna and NTR’s movies. The audio clip is fake, and there is no truth in it,” he clarified. He further alleged that the recording was part of a political conspiracy aimed at discrediting him.

While maintaining that the voice in the audio was not his, Prasad extended regret to Jr NTR fans, saying, “Though it was not my voice, if Jr NTR supporters are hurt, I apologise to them.”

The incident underscores the impact of viral content on public perception and political controversies, especially when it involves high-profile celebrities. Authorities and local political observers are monitoring the situation as fan demonstrations continue to draw attention in Anantapur.