A controversy has broken out in Andhra Pradesh after abusive social media posts targeting the minor daughters of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan led to public anger and police investigations.
The Jana Sena Party leader stated that while criticism of the government is allowed under the Constitution, abuse, threats and harassment are criminal acts.
The issue arose after a recent custodial death, when several accounts reportedly posted hateful content aimed at Pawan Kalyan and his daughters.
In a video message released by the party, he clarified the difference between free speech and online abuse. He noted that social media allows people to express views and question authorities, a right protected by the Constitution. However, he stressed that this does not include abuse, death threats, false allegations, attacks on women or insults to religious beliefs.
He also highlighted the misuse of anonymous accounts for spreading offensive material and targeting individuals.
Police have filed cases in Pithapuram and Eluru against those involved. Investigations continue to trace the accounts, and further action is expected. One activist was arrested and later moved into custody in a separate case.
