NEW DELHI: Demand for special category status for Andhra Pradesh, has taken its toll on relations between the ruling BJP and key ally TDP. The government was recently left red-faced when several TDP MPs joined those of the YSR Congress Party in forcing adjournments of the Lok Sabha.
The steady sloganeering and placard flashing forced Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to reiterate the central government's assurance that it is committed to their demand. He said, "Some members have concerns over particular issues. The government stands by its commitment. We are trying to find a solution to these issues." However, this wasn't enough for the MPs. MP Jayadev Galla said, "We have waited for two-and-a-half years. Are we expected to wait another two years? We need a time-frame."
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar tried his hand at consoling the people. "The demands of Andhra Pradesh are under consideration. I request my friends to take the assurance of the finance minister and resume business. I am assuring the MPs of Andhra Pradesh that the government is committed to whatever has been assured. We are with the people of Andhra Pradesh. Give us some time."
TDP and YSRCP members started shouting slogans soon after the House met in the morning. Members in traditional attire and yellow headgear, held banners and stood by the aisles even though they were barred from entering the well.
Schools and businesses remained shut last week as the YSRCP and the Left parties sponsored a state-wide bandh. The protests have caused such a rift that party MPs have asked Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to break ties with the BJP.
Naidu meets Modi
Meanwhile, Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu landed in New Delhi and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during which he is believed to have raised the issue of special status for his state. Sources said Naidu told the Prime Minister that a special status was assured to Andhra Pradesh after its bifurcation by his predecessor Manmohan Singh and also by the TDP and the BJP during the polls and the promise must be delivered.
The Chief Minister is also believed to have said that since several political parties supported the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill, the chances of their resistance to special status to the state is likely to be little.
