Hyderabad – In a rare move, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader Pawan Kalyan criticized ally Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) Home Minister Anitha, calling for improved law and order measures in the state. Citing a recent increase in crimes against women, including the tragic assault of a three-year-old, Kalyan stated, “Peace and security have markedly deteriorated in Andhra Pradesh.”
Speaking at a rally in his Pithapuram constituency, Kalyan warned that if the Home Minister does not handle the state’s security effectively, he would be compelled to “take over the home department.” He stressed the need for a firm approach, similar to Uttar Pradesh under Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, saying, “If I do, things will be very different for these people. We have to be like Yogi Adityanath. Otherwise, they won’t change.”
Kalyan’s criticism has fueled speculation of a rift within the TDP-Jana Sena alliance, although senior minister Narayana, a colleague in Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s cabinet, defended Kalyan’s right to hold ministers accountable. Narayana said Kalyan’s role as Deputy Chief Minister allows him to address concerns in the state’s governance.
Adding to his pro-right stance, Kalyan recently announced the formation of the ‘Narasimha Varahi Brigade,’ a dedicated Jana Sena wing aimed at defending Sanatana Dharma. Emphasizing respect for all religions, Kalyan warned that those disrespecting Sanatana Dharma on social media “will have to face consequences.”
The Deputy Chief Minister’s strong words reflect growing frustration over the state’s security issues and his commitment to a stricter governance model.
