GoM discusses Andhra Pradesh bifurcation

The Group of Ministers (GoM) on Telangana held a third meeting in the national capital Thursday to consider issues regarding the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and the formation of a separate Telangana state.

An hour-long meeting presided over by Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde discussed reports submitted by various ministries and suggestions received from political parties and people.

The meeting is understood to have discussed the status of Andhra Pradesh capital Hyderabad, the sharing of river water and revenue between the two states, as well as education and other issues.

Shinde told reporters after the meeting that 18,000 suggestions were received by e-mail and letters from public representatives and individuals.

He said the GoM would hold a meeting with secretaries of various departments of the central government Nov 11.

The GoM has also invited eight political parties Nov 12 and 13 to hear them individually on various issues regarding bifurcation. Each party has been asked to depute one or two representatives to the meeting. Shinde said each party would get 20 minutes.

The GoM would also meet central ministers from the state Nov 18.

Earlier, the task force appointed by the central government to look into security related issues after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh submitted its report to the GoM.

The task force headed by security advisor to Home Ministry K. Vijaya Kumar last week visited Hyderabad and met senior police officials.