Pa Ranjith Says That They Followed Every Protocol In His Statement About Stunt Master Accidental Dea

In a statement, acclaimed Tamil filmmaker Pa Ranjith addressed the devastating loss of veteran stuntman SM Raju on the set of his upcoming film, Vettuvam. The tragic incident, which occurred during a high-risk SUV stunt in Nagapattinam, has cast a pall over the production and led to allegations of negligence against Ranjith and three others. 

Expressing profound shock and grief, Ranjith emphasized the meticulous planning and stringent safety measures undertaken, stating, "A day that started out with detailed planning, caution, clarity in execution... ended up in his unexpected death." He further clarified that the team "relied on the expertise of our Stunt Director Dilip Subbarayan and followed every protocol" to ensure safety, underscoring the unforeseen nature of the tragedy despite all precautions.

Ranjith's heartfelt statement also paid tribute to SM Raju, who was a respected and experienced figure in the film industry. Describing him as a "husband, father, an incredible stunt artist and a graceful human being," Ranjith highlighted Raju's dedication to his craft and his desire to be remembered for his exceptional work. 

The incident has inevitably sparked a critical discussion within the industry regarding film set safety protocols and the imperative for comprehensive planning, especially for high-octane action sequences. The Keelaiyur Police have since registered a case against Ranjith, stunt choreographer Rajkamal, car owner Prabhakaran, and Neelam Productions, citing sections of the BNS Act related to negligent conduct and culpable homicide, as authorities suspect potential lapses in safety.