Shinde rules out President's rule in Andhra Pradesh

Widespread agitation in Seemandhra is a matter of grave concern to the Central government, says the Home Minister

Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde today ruled out the possibility of imposing President's rule in Andhra Pradesh in the wake of widespread protests in Seemandhra region against the decision to create Telangana.

"There is no plan under consideration to impose President's rule in Andhra Pradesh. There was no such discussion in today's Cabinet (meeting)," he told reporters here.

He was replying to a question whether the Central government was considering the option of imposing central rule in the southern state which has been witnessing protests after the Union Cabinet's decision to bifurcate Andhra Pradesh.

The Home Minister said the widespread agitation in Seemandhra was a matter of grave concern to the Central government.

He said the Government fully respects the sentiments of the people of the region on this sensitive issue.

"I would like to assure the people of Seemandhra that the government of India remains fully committed to address all their concerns, particularly with respect to safeguarding the interests of people living in Telangana," he said.

Shinde said the concerns of Seemandhra people with regard to education and employment opportunities in Hyderabad for the youth, the sharing of river waters and issue of government employees would be taken care of.

"The Group of Ministers will address all these and other issues in a comprehensive manner and will hold detailed consultations with all stake holders," he said.