Ponnam Prabhakar Demands Apology From Pawan Kalyan Over Telangana Remarks

A fresh political debate has emerged in Telangana after state minister Ponnam Prabhakar demanded that Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan publicly apologise for his past remarks about Telangana before conducting any public meetings in the state.

Addressing a media conference at the Husnabad MLA camp office on Monday, the minister said Telangana people have not forgotten comments that allegedly hurt their self respect and regional identity during the statehood movement. He argued that leaders who wish to address the people of Telangana must first clarify their earlier positions and statements.

Ponnam Prabhakar recalled remarks attributed to Pawan Kalyan during the period when Telangana was seeking statehood. According to the minister, those comments were viewed by many as disrespectful to the aspirations and sentiments of the people who fought for a separate state.

The minister questioned why public meetings were being planned in Telangana and asked Pawan Kalyan to explain the political purpose behind organising such events in the state. He also suggested that priority should be given to fulfilling commitments made to the people of Andhra Pradesh before expanding political activities elsewhere.

Describing Telangana Formation Day as a moment of pride and celebration for every citizen of the state, Ponnam Prabhakar said everyone is welcome to participate in the celebrations. However, he maintained that statements perceived as insulting to Telangana’s identity and history would not be accepted by the people.

He further stated that the Telangana government is taking steps to honour the families of martyrs and activists who played a role in the statehood movement. Their sacrifices, he said, remain an important part of Telangana’s history and should be respected by all political leaders.

At the same time, the minister stressed that Telangana and Andhra Pradesh share strong cultural and emotional ties. He said both states should continue to maintain cordial relations and mutual respect, while avoiding any attempts to create divisions or provoke regional tensions.

Ponnam Prabhakar also noted that democracy allows every political leader and party to conduct meetings and interact with the public. However, he emphasised that politics based on hostility and divisive rhetoric would find little support in Telangana.

His remarks have triggered discussion across political circles, with leaders and observers closely watching whether the issue leads to further exchanges between the two sides in the coming days.