Tamil Actor Arya Booked in Hyderabad Over Alleged ₹1.80 Crore Equipment Rental Scam

Hyderabad police filed a cheating case against popular Tamil actor Arya on Tuesday, alleging that he failed to clear equipment‑rental bills amounting to roughly ₹1.80 crore. According to the police complaint, the amount was due to a production house that supplied cameras, lighting kits and other technical gear for a film shoot in the city.

The complaint states that the equipment was handed over in early 2023, but the payment never materialised despite repeated reminders. After several notices, the owners approached the police, prompting the registration of a case under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code – the classic cheating provision.

Arya’s legal counsel, speaking to the press, said the actor was "unaware" of the alleged dues and that the matter was “currently under discussion.” The lawyer added that Arya is ready to settle any genuine financial obligations, but emphasized that the star has never intentionally cheated anyone.

Sources close to the production house, however, claim that Arya’s team had initially agreed to a payment plan that was later ignored. They allege that the actor’s representatives promised to clear the balance in installments, but the installments never arrived, leaving the company with mounting losses.

In a brief statement, Arya himself expressed surprise at the allegations, saying, “I have always honoured my commitments. If there is any misunderstanding, we will resolve it amicably.” The actor’s words reflect a tone of cooperation, but the legal process is now in motion.

Legal experts point out that cheating cases in the film industry, especially involving equipment rentals, are not unheard of. “Production houses often extend credit to actors and directors, hoping for prompt payment after the shoot,” explains Meera Srinivasan, a media law specialist. “When the cash flow doesn’t materialise, it can lead to disputes that end up in court.”

Meanwhile, the Hyderabad police have lodged a charge sheet and are awaiting Arya’s appearance in court. If the actor fails to appear, the case could be escalated to a non‑bailable warrant.

Fans of Arya took to social media, expressing both shock and support. While some questioned the actor’s financial prudence, many urged patience, reminding followers that legal matters often take time to resolve.

As the drama unfolds off‑screen, the entertainment world watches closely. Whether this will tarnish Arya’s otherwise clean image remains to be seen, but the legal proceedings will certainly keep the spotlight on the Tamil star for the foreseeable future.