Cong MPs threaten indefinite fast

To mount pressure on the Centre for accepting statehood demand, Congress MPs from the Telangana region on Saturday threatened to join the ongoing agitation and go on an indefinite fast.

“If there is no positive response from the Centre we plan to launch fast-unto-death for achieving our goal in consultation with leaders of other parties and people’s organisations,” Congress MP Madhu Yashik Goud told reporters here after a meeting of party MPs from the region.

The Congress MPs from Telangana have been making efforts to achieve the goal of a separate state, MP M Jagannadham said, adding they would launch “direct action” like indefinite fast. Highlighting the need for accepting the demand, they want the Centre to announce a road map for formation of a separate state quickly.

“The Governor, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, PCC chief and former PCC President who have been called to Delhi should explain to the Central leadership about the need for accepting the demand. This is a historical occasion when all sections of people are participating in the ongoing strike,” Congress MP Ponnam Prabhakar said.

The Congress MPs from Telangana have already submitted their resignations, but a decision on their acceptance has not been taken so far.

The pro-Telangana group, which includes government employees, have been participating in ‘Sakala Januala Samme’ (strike by all sections of people) since September 13.