Freedom of speech not freedom to abuse: Pawan Kalyan

03-Jul-2026

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In Andhra Pradesh, social media posts abusing Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan's minor daughters sparked outrage and police action. Kalyan emphasized the right to free speech but condemned abuse, threats, and harassment as criminal offenses. The controversy arose after a custodial death, with hateful posts targeting Kalyan and his family from anonymous accounts. Police registered cases and arrested social media activist Prashna Ravan. Investigations continue to identify offenders amid concerns over misuse of social media for personal attacks and spreading false information.

Addressing the issue in a video message shared by the Jana Sena Party on X, Pawan Kalyan drew a clear distinction between the constitutional right to free speech and online abuse.

"Social media has become a powerful platform to express our views, raise public issues and hold governments accountable. Freedom of speech and expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by our Constitution, and our government fully respects that right," he said.

"Freedom of speech does not mean the freedom to abuse. You have the right to criticise the government. You have the right to question us. You have the right to disagree with our decisions. This is democracy, and we welcome it. But abusing someone, issuing death threats, spreading false allegations, targeting women, insulting religious beliefs, attacking someone's dignity or provoking violence are not protected under the Constitution. They are criminal offences," he said.