'Terrorists Making Southern States Soft Target, Rohingyas Taking Away Local's Jobs': Andhra Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said that terrorists are making southern states a “soft target,” the NDTV reported.

Pawan Kalyan has also raised concerns over the settlement of Rohingya refugees in the state, claiming it is contributing to unemployment among local youth and creating internal security issues.

Speaking to reporters at Gannavaram airport in Vijayawada, the Jana Sena Party leader alleged that some individuals within the system were helping the migrants settle permanently. 

He called on the police to maintain heightened vigilance, stating, "In light of traces of terrorist activities in the state, I have requested the DGP, through a letter, to ensure the state police remain highly vigilant. I have instructed them to coordinate with the administration and take strict action against those linked to terrorist activities," as per NDTV.

The leader emphasised the importance of monitoring coastal areas, adding, "Proper surveillance of migrants can help prevent potential dangers. There is also a need to increase continuous monitoring and surveillance along the coastal areas. In the past, there were reports of outsiders arriving by boat in Kakinada." He also pointed to recent joint operations by Telangana and Andhra Pradesh police that, according to him, uncovered traces of terrorist activities.

Kalyan said the arrival of Rohingya migrants in Andhra Pradesh began around 2017–18, particularly for work as goldsmiths. "The Rohingya, originating from Myanmar, have caused local youth to face unemployment issues. A key demand in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is to prioritise jobs for locals, which was a major slogan during Telangana's formation," he added.

He raised questions over how migrants are allegedly obtaining government-issued identity documents. "The negligence of the system in allowing Rohingya to establish permanent residency is evident. Questions arise about how they are obtaining Aadhaar, voter, and ration cards and who is facilitating this. It is clear that some individuals within the system are assisting them," he said.