Kite-flying is not uncommon in the media. Several newspapers, television channels, digital media outlets, and YouTube channels often publish stories based on unnamed “sources” merely to create a sensation and boost their readership or viewership.
On Monday, a relatively lesser-known Telugu television channel aired one such “sensational” story, seemingly aimed at stirring political controversy.
According to the report, YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy is allegedly facing a threat to his life from anti-social elements.
Citing “central intelligence” sources, the anchor claimed that Jagan had received specific information that a couple of gangs were plotting to assassinate him, particularly since he has resumed engaging with the public on various issues.
The report alleged that the central intelligence agency had warned Jagan about two gangs — one from Haryana and another from Karnataka — that had already entered Andhra Pradesh and were waiting for the right opportunity to strike.
It advised him to exercise extreme caution and be vigilant about those in his vicinity.
According to the channel, Jagan postponed his recent visit to Nellore — where he was scheduled to meet party leader and former minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy — after receiving this intelligence input.
YSRCP leaders, however, publicly claimed that the visit was delayed because district police had not granted timely permission for a helipad.
Jagan had reportedly considered traveling to Nellore by road from Tadepalli, but senior party leaders advised against it due to disturbances during his recent visit to the Palnadu district.
“But the real reason,” the report claimed, “was the intelligence warning from central agencies.”
The channel further highlighted the alleged non-functioning of CCTV cameras around Jagan’s Tadepalli residence, speculating that he could be attacked from the elevated road passing nearby.
However, this report appears to be speculative at best. If there were indeed a threat alert from central intelligence, it would have been communicated to the state police department.
Given that Jagan is entitled to Z+ category security, the Centre itself would be responsible for dispatching additional security personnel, just as it did for TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu in the past.
In reality, CCTV cameras around Jagan’s residence were restored long ago, and significant surveillance continues around the premises — even though barricades and some security posts were removed after Jagan left office.
Notably, on June 24, the Central Government submitted an affidavit to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, clearly stating that there is no threat perception to Jagan.
Deputy Solicitor General P. Ponnarao submitted the affidavit on behalf of the Centre, quoting a central intelligence bureau report confirming that there was no life threat.
Jagan had approached the High Court seeking restoration of his Z+ security status and requested protection from NSG or CRPF commandos.
His counsel, Y Nagi Reddy, argued that the state government was neglecting Jagan’s security, pointing to recent incidents as evidence.
The case is scheduled for further hearing on July 15.
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