Hyderabad Police Review Legal Action Against Pawan Kalyan Over Alleged Insult to Old City Residents
The Hyderabad City Police are currently seeking legal advice regarding potential action against Tollywood actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan, who has come under scrutiny for remarks made during a public rally in Maharashtra. Kalyan, who is also the deputy chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, allegedly insulted the people of Hyderabad’s Old City during his speech, leading to calls for a police investigation.
Pawan Kalyan’s Controversial Remarks
While addressing a campaign rally for BJP candidate Sudhir Mungantiwar in Ballarpur, Kalyan made a statement that sparked controversy. According to reports, he remarked that residents of Old City, Hyderabad, had “always criticized Indian culture and the festivals of India.” The statement quickly drew backlash from some quarters, especially those from the Old City area, accusing Kalyan of generalizing and insulting the community.
During his speech, Kalyan also referenced the values of Sanatan Dharma, stating that followers of the faith had always respected individuals from all religions but would respond to those who “disrespect” it. He further lauded Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, describing them as inspirations behind his political outfit.
“My party was founded with the inspiration of Shivaji Maharaj and Balasaheb Thackeray,” Kalyan was quoted as saying. He went on to praise the unifying efforts of Shivaji and Thackeray in strengthening communities.
Public Outcry and Police Complaint
The comments, particularly those directed at the residents of Old City, have triggered outrage among some local groups. A resident of Hyderabad, Mohammed Mubashir, formally petitioned Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand, urging that a case be filed against Kalyan for allegedly insulting the people of the Old City and for causing communal discord. Mubashir’s complaint highlights concerns over Kalyan’s remarks, which are seen as inflammatory and divisive.
In response to the complaint, the city police have initiated an internal review to assess whether Kalyan’s comments violate any legal provisions, including those related to communal harmony and defamation.
Pawan Kalyan’s Political Background
Pawan Kalyan, the younger brother of popular actor Chiranjeevi, is a well-known figure in Andhra Pradesh politics, currently serving as the deputy chief minister of the state. He is also the leader of the Jana Sena Party, which he founded in 2014. Kalyan has been a vocal supporter of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has often used strong rhetoric in his speeches to rally support for his party’s ideology.
The remarks made in Ballarpur, however, have attracted criticism not only from residents of Hyderabad but also from political opponents who accuse Kalyan of using provocative language to stir tensions between communities.
Legal and Political Repercussions
The Hyderabad police’s decision on whether to pursue legal action against Pawan Kalyan will depend on their evaluation of the complaint and the legal interpretation of his statements. If a case is registered, it could lead to further political controversy, especially in the context of the upcoming elections in Maharashtra and the larger political climate surrounding the BJP’s alliances in the region.
For now, the controversy has once again brought to the fore the issue of communal sensitivity and the responsibility of public figures to maintain decorum in their speech, particularly in diverse and multicultural urban areas like Hyderabad.
