Andhra, Telangana governor suggests way to resolve EAMCET row

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan has made certain suggestions to resolve the row between the two states over the issue of conducting the common entrance test for engineering and other professional courses.

He told reporters Thursday that he has given some options to the two states. "I am waiting for official report from them," he said.

The governor had summoned the education ministers of the two states a couple of days ago and made the suggestions to resolve the issue.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao also called on the governor and had one-and-half- hour-long meeting with him. He is believed to have discussed the issue of conducting Engineering Agriculture and Medical Common Entrance Test (EAMCET) this year.

Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) has already decided to conduct joint EAMCET for students of both the states. It also announced schedule for common entrance tests for other professional courses.

While APSCHE argued that it is empowered to conduct the joint tests under Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014, Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE) has termed its action unilateral.

Telangana authorities are preparing to conduct separate EAMCET for students from the newly created state.

The issue is likely to create confusion for thousands of students from both the states. Telangana is likely to approach court to challenge the action of APSCHE.

The Telangana chief minister is understood to have explained to the governor the position taken by his government. Though Rao called on governor to greet him on the occasion of New Year, he also had a long meeting to discuss various issues including conduct of EAMCET.

Later, in an informal chat with reporters, Narasimhan said while problems were common between new states, they can be solve amicably through talks.

Conveying his best wishes to both the states for their development and prosperity in the new year, he said he would continue to give them suggestions as friend, philosopher and guide. He lauded both the chief ministers saying they were working with vision for development of their respective states.

The governor, who facilitated a meeting between Chandrasekhar Rao and his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N. Chandrababu Naidu in August, said he would host both the chief ministers on the Republic Day. The governor will participate in RD celebrations in both the states.