Telangana GoM to have 10 members; Bill likely in winter session

The ministers of Home, Finance, Law and Water Resources will be part of the 10-member GoM set up to go into the issues arising out of the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, like determination of boundary, sharing of assets and river water, among others.

Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said the GoM will make its recommendations within six weeks with the Telangana Bill likely to be introduced in Parliament in the winter session.

According to the terms of reference for the Group of Ministers, the Human Resource Development, Urban Development, Road Transport and Highways, Power, and Personnel Ministers, along with the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, will be the other members of the high-powered body.

The GoM will determine the boundaries of the new state of Telangana and the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh with reference to electoral constituencies, judicial and statutory bodies and other administrative units.

It will look into the legal and administrative measures required to ensure that both state governments function efficiently from Hyderabad, which is to be the common capital for the two states for 10 years.

The GoM will take into account the legal, financial and administrative measures that may be required for transition to a new capital for the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh.

It will also look into the special needs of both states and recommend measures.

The GoM will also study issues related to law and order, safety and security to ensure peace and harmony in the region following the bifurcation.

Besides, it will evaluate the long-term internal security implications arising out of the bifurcation and make suitable recommendations.