KA Paul accuses Chandrababu of silencing Christian voices

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced that 8,427 Christian pastors in the state will receive a monthly honorarium of ₹5,000. The relevant department officials have issued official orders in this regard.

In response, Praja Shanti Party President KA Paul levelled criticisms against Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. KA Paul questioned the timing of the announcement, stating, “You declared this on Good Friday, promising to give ₹5,000 per month to over 8,000 pastors. Why was this honorarium not provided earlier? Why now?” He demanded a clear explanation from Chandrababu Naidu.

KA Paul further questioned whether this was an attempt to silence the voices of Christian pastors, especially in the wake of the murder of Pastor Praveen, which he claimed had mobilised millions of Christians, Hindus, and Muslims. “Are you trying to shut the mouths of pastors because people have come forward after Pastor Praveen’s murder?” he asked.

He also alleged that N. Chandrababu Naidu had earlier accused Christians of converting Hindus and criticised Pawan Kalyan for echoing the same sentiments. KA Paul expressed disapproval that only 8,000 pastors were selected for the honorarium scheme, asking, “What about the remaining 80,000 pastors?” He also raised concerns over the exclusion of thousands of Muslim clerics and Hindu priests, questioning, “What about them?”

KA Paul urged the faithful not to be deceived. He said, “Every person must question how someone with no assets worth even a lakh of rupees became the owner of thousands of crores.” He warned against being bought off and called on everyone to unite and work towards the victory of his party.