Pawan Kalyan Petition in High Court Sparks Political Row in Andhra Pradesh

The Andhra Pradesh High Court heard a fresh petition against Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, triggering sharp political reactions across the state. Former IAS officer G. Vijay Kumar, founder of the Liberation Congress Party, filed the case and demanded CBI and ACB investigations into what he described as misuse of power by Pawan for film-related benefits. The matter came up on August 18 before Justice Venkata Jyotirmai Pratapa, who postponed the hearing to August 25.

Allegations Against Pawan Kalyan

Vijay Kumar accused Pawan Kalyan of violating the Code of Conduct for ministers by acting in films and promoting them while holding office. He said Pawan not only played the lead role in Hari Hara Veera Mallu but also actively promoted the movie, creating a clear conflict of interest.

He pointed out that the Andhra Pradesh government allowed special ticket price hikes for the film from July 24 to August 2. Single-screen tickets went up by Rs 100- Rs 150, multiplex tickets by up to Rs 200, and premiere shows reached Rs 600 plus GST. Vijay Kumar claimed that Pawan used his ministerial office to secure these benefits.

He also highlighted the Mana Ooru – Mana Mantri program on July 24, which the government broadcast live from a cinema hall in Srikakulam. He said this move mixed state-sponsored activities with private commercial promotions, raising ethical and legal concerns.

Legal Demands in the Petition

Vijay Kumar urged the High Court to:

Direct a CBI probe under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Review the state’s decision to grant higher ticket prices.

Investigate the use of state machinery, police, and administration for film promotions.

Order a time-bound enquiry into misconduct, conflict of interest, and abuse of office.

Janasena’s Counterattack

Janasena supporters dismissed the petition as politically motivated. They said Vijay Kumar maintains close ties with former CM Jagan Mohan Reddy, recalling how he once praised Jagan publicly and even sang birthday wishes for him. They argued that his current attack on Pawan only exposes his political bias.

Supporters stressed that Pawan always speaks openly about his acting career and calls films his livelihood. They said his cinema work does not affect his duties as Deputy CM. According to them, rivals feel threatened by Pawan’s growing strength, but the people of Andhra Pradesh will continue to back him.

What Lies Ahead

The High Court will hear the case again on August 25. The petition has already intensified the political battle, with critics questioning ethics in governance and supporters portraying it as a failed attempt to derail Pawan Kalyan’s political rise.

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