Govt rules out President's rule in AP

Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde on Saturday ruled out imposing Presidential rule on Andhra Pradesh, in the wake of continuing protest against the formation of Telangana.

The home minister reiterated that the note on Telangana formation would soon be presented before the Cabinet.

“There is no question of President's rule in Andhra Pradesh. The Congress Working Committee had taken a decision on Telangana and asked the government to prepare a resolution. One process has been completed. Now, it has come to the government and the second stage has started. It will happen soon,” he told reporters.

Regarding Hyderabad’s status, Shinde refused to say if making the city a Union Territory is under consideration. He said two or three options are under consideration, but no decision has been taken.

“We cannot say at this stage (about Hyderabad’s status). All issues have to be taken care of,” he said.

Maintain law and order

The Centre also assured Parliament that it would take all possible steps to maintain law and order in Andhra Pradesh. Finance Minister P Chidambaram informed Rajya Sabha that the central government is in touch with the state government.  “We are in touch with government of Andhra Pradesh. We will take all steps possible to maintain law and order, especially in Hyderabad. Be patient,” said Chidambaram.

His statement came in after TDP members alleged that there is no government in Andhra Pradesh and wanted to know what steps the Centre was taking to control law and order there.

Dissatisfied with the finance minister’s answer, TDP members walked out. Some congress members from Andhra Pradesh also tried to speak, but were disallowed by Deputy Chairman.