Date:23/10/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/10/23/stories/2007102362811200.htm

National

No threat to Srija: Uncle

Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD: Pawan Kalyan, actor and younger brother of Mr. Chiranjeevi, on Monday deposited his revolver along with the licence at a police station in Hyderabad.

He announced that he was creating an organisation called ‘Common Man Protection Force’.

The actor walked into the Jubilee police station in a dramatic fashion holding his revolver in one hand and the licence in the other with fans and television crew in tow. He handed over the weapon to the Station House Officer.

Mr. Pawan Kalyan said he was doing so in the wake of apprehensions expressed by Srija. He said he was pained by her remarks.

Later, Mr. Pawan Kalyan told a press conference at his residence that he was launching a protection force to help people like Srija.

Then he wrote out a cheque for Rs. 1 crore, which, he said, would be operated by the Common Man Protection Force for the creation of a “better society”.

Needy persons such as fluorosis victims of Nalgonda district and those living in penury could access the Force for assistance, he said.

Referring to the petition filed by Srija in the Delhi High Court seeking protection for herself and her spouse, the actor wondered why the newlyweds had to move the Court as they were welcome to stay at his or his brother’s house. He advised them to return to Hyderabad and fight for their rights.

“True love does not run away,” he quipped.

Mr. Pawan Kalyan said he was a member of the Madras Rifle Club and had possessed an arms licence since 1998. He said he did not require the revolver now.