Amaravati, AP: Former IAS officer Vijay Kumar has filed a writ petition in the Andhra Pradesh High Court, raising legal and ethical concerns over Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan continuing to work in the entertainment industry despite holding a constitutional office.
The petition, filed on Monday, seeks interim orders to restrict Pawan Kalyan from acting in films, producing or promoting movies, appearing in advertisements, and participating in entertainment programmes, citing conflict of interest and constitutional violation.
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Allegations of Misuse of Office and Conflict of Interest
In his plea, Vijay Kumar alleged that government funds and office were misused during the making and promotion of Pawan Kalyan’s latest release, Hari Hara Veera Mallu (HHVM). He claimed that the Deputy CM’s involvement in commercial films while holding ministerial office contradicts the constitutional oath of office, which implies full-time public service.
He also raised concerns over Pawan’s public admission of acting in films “to make money,” and his alleged influence on ticket price hikes for HHVM, reportedly to benefit producers and film revenues.
“He is acting in films, promoting them, and allowing an increase in ticket prices to ensure producers earn money. This is a clear conflict of interest,” Vijay said during a recent appearance on YNR’s podcast.
HC Rejects Notices to CBI, ACB and Pawan for Now
The High Court did not accept the plea to issue notices to the CBI, ACB, and Pawan Kalyan at this stage, and posted the matter for further hearing next week. Legal experts say the petition touches on unchartered constitutional territory, as India does not currently have a clear law barring ministers from engaging in private professions such as entertainment or business—though ethics and propriety are widely debated.
Pawan Kalyan’s Continued Presence in Cinema
Pawan Kalyan, the Jana Sena Party chief, signed several films before the 2024 AP elections, including Hari Hara Veera Mallu, Ustaad Bhagat Singh, and They Call Him OG. All three films were shot and completed around the time of the elections and his swearing-in as Deputy CM.
HHVM was released on 24 July, and unusually, the actor took part in its promotion, a move he has previously avoided. During interviews, he admitted that he needed cinema for financial sustainability, stating:
“Even if I act, it will be only for two hours a day. I need cinema for my financial sustenance.”
He also indicated a possible shift toward film production in the future, if not acting, to maintain income streams alongside his political responsibilities.
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What’s at Stake?
The petition raises questions about the role of public servants in private enterprise, and whether India needs clearer legal frameworks governing the conduct of ministers involved in commercial activities.
The outcome of this case could potentially set a precedent for similar cases involving politicians with dual careers in entertainment or business.
