Rousing reception to Pawan Kalyan; YSRC, Janasena trade charges

VISAKHAPATNAM: An enthusiastic welcome was accorded to Pawan Kalyan, leader of the Janasena Party, as he landed in Visakhapatnam on Saturday for a three-day visit.

A large crowd of Janasena supporters had gathered at Visakhapatnam's airport to greet actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan. The airport lawns were turned into a cultural ground with performances by traditional artistes. Art forms such as Kolatam, Tappetagulu, and Dhimsa dance were performed to welcome the actor.

As part of the Janavani program, Pawan Kalyan led a large rally that started at the Vizag airport and concluded at the Novotel going past the NAD Flyover, Thatichetlapalem, Telugu Thali Flyover, Siripuram Circle, Park Hotel, and NTR Statue (Beach Road). Pawan Kalyan intends to meet with party cadres and leaders from North-coastal districts during his three-day visit.

The YSRCP Ministers' vehicles were reportedly obstructed and damaged while they were returning from the 'Visakha Garjana' event as Janasena fans went berserk outside the Visakapatnam airport when they welcomed Pawan Kalyan. The police had to resort to mild lathi-charge to subdue the mob.

However, the Janasena Party denied having a role in the attack on YSRCP ministers, claiming that the YSRCP was enacting a drama to divert attention from Pawan Kalyan's visit. Nadendla Manohar, Chairman of the Janasena PAC, stated that it was ridiculous that state ministers claim that Jana Sena party workers attacked ministers at Visakha airport. The police department did not confirm whether the attack on the ministers' cars was perpetrated by Janasena workers. These are only false statements made by YCRCP leaders. "Our party never promotes an attack culture," he claimed.

Manohar also claimed that state police did not respond adequately when asked to find Janasena Chief Pawan Kalyan a comfortable place to stay in Visakapatnam. He added that the electricity was disconnected as Pawan Kalyan's rally approached in a procession, preventing the streetlights from turning on, which amply demonstrated the objective of the ruling party.