Jana Sena Party launches probe into allegations of extortion against Kiran Royal

TIRUPATI: Jana Sena Party (JSP) President and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has directed the party’s Conflict Committee to investigate the allegations made against the Tirupati constituency in-charge, Kiran Royal.

The directive follows the release of a video on social media platform X by YSRCP, in which a woman from Tirupati, identified as Lakshmi, accused Kiran of fraud, extortion, and claimed that he took over Rs 1.20 crore and 25 sovereigns (200 grams) of gold from her under false promises, leaving her in severe financial distress. In the now-viral video, she revealed that she had been driven to the brink of suicide due to his actions.

In the video, Lakshmi said: “I took loans and gave Rs 1.20 crore (to Kiran Royal). When I asked for my money back, I was threatened that my children would be harmed. He made me record videos under duress. He only gave me bonds and cheques worth Rs 30 lakh. I have all the proof. My children are asking me questions, and I have no answers. I cannot live anymore. If I die, I only hope that my children will get back the money.”

Until further notice, Kiran has been instructed to refrain from participating in party activities. Pawan also urged party members, including Jana Sainiks, Veera Mahilas, and leaders, to focus on public welfare and avoid personal disputes. He emphasised that no one is above the law and that the legal process will take its course. The YSRCP released Lakshmi’s video shortly after Kiran published a satirical poster criticising party president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy over his “Jagananna 2.0” remark. 

Kiran denies charges; Lakshmi releases 10 voice recordings

It may be pointed out that Jagan, during a recent interaction with YSRCP activists, had stressed that Jagananna 2.0 would be different, focusing on protecting and supporting every party activist.

Following the allegations, women from various organisations gathered outside Kiran’s residence on Sunday, demanding his arrest. The police intervened and attempted to disperse the crowd, warning them of potential arrests if they continued their demonstration. However, the protesting women vowed to continue their fight for justice. Women’s organisations also met with Lakshmi, expressed their support, and demanded that the JSP suspend Kiran Royal immediately.

As the video spread widely, Kiran Royal allegedly contacted Lakshmi and hurled abuse at her, further intimidating her. In response, Lakshmi released voice recordings in which Kiran was heard threatening to kill her and stating that he would be released from jail within a month.

Reacting to the allegations, Kiran held a press conference in which he dismissed Lakshmi’s claims, labelling her a “criminal” with cases in Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, and Bengaluru. He alleged that she was involved in betting rackets and had incurred debts due to her own actions.

However, Lakshmi refuted these claims and provided additional evidence, including 10 voice recordings of Kiran threatening her, some of which contained explicit abuse and death threats. She also released CCTV footage showing him visiting her office and intimidating her.

The woman stated that she approached the SV University SI for protection. She is likely to file an official complaint with the Tirupati SP on Monday.

Women’s organisations and protesters have demanded Kiran Royal’s immediate suspension from the party, questioning JSP’s commitment to women’s safety. “Is this how Pawan Kalyan ensures women’s protection?” they asked. Lakshmi also stated that she has solid evidence against Kiran Royal and urged the authorities to take strict action.