Security breach: Black balloons released by Cong leaders fly close to PM's helicopter

Amaravati: Despite tight security arrangements for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhimavaram, a security breach was reported when the PM was travelling from Gannavaram to Bhimavaram. Tension prevailed in the area after black balloons released by Andhra Pradesh Congress leaders came close to the helicopter in which Mr. Modi, Andhra Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, and Union minister Kishan Reddy were flying to Bhimavaram in West Godavari district from Gannavaram airport.

There is a protocol to have a "no fly zone" along the route taken by the Prime Minister in his helicopter. Going against the protocol, Congress leaders, with the assistance of Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) general secretary Rajiv Ratan, released dozens of black balloons from a building located 2 km from Gannavaram airport. The police have arrested three persons involved in the incident and are investigating the incident.

Meanwhile, AP Congress Coordination Committee member and state Mahila Congress leader Sunkara Padmasree protested at Gannavaram airport shouting "Go Back Modi" slogans and holding placards and black balloons. The police took into custody Sunkara Padmasri near Gannavaram and PCC chief Sailajanath who protested in Rajahmundry.