Cong for amicable solution to Telangana issue: CM

The Congress high command is constantly holding consultations with all concerned to find an amicable solution to the Telangana issue, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah said in Hyderabad on Wednesday.

Before leaving for New Delhi to meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, Rosaiah told reporters that the party was treading cautiously as Telangana was a "sensitive" issue. "But there should be a conducive atmosphere before any decision could be taken on the Telangana issue.Primarily there should be good law and order in the state," the Chief Minister said.

Asked if a positive decision on Telangana was expected to be taken by the Congress high command by this evening, Rosaiah remarked: "That's our wish and aspiration too". When pointed out to the divergent demands being raised within the Congress on creation of separate states like Telangana, Greater Rayalaseema, Andhra, north-coastal Andhra and Union Territory status for Hyderabad, Rosaiah shot back: "Don't the Congressmen have the freedom to express their views?"

He said Telangana Rashtra Samiti president K Chandrasekhar Rao succeeded in attracting attention through his ongoing fast. "Not only Congress but also other parties at the national level have taken note of the issue.But we all want Rao to call off his fast immediately".

Referring to allegations that unsocial elements have joined the ongoing Telangana movement and sparked violence, the Chief Minister noted: "There are undoubtedly certain elements who are bent upon disturbing peace and tranquility. But we will deal with them with a firm hand to maintain law and order".

Asked about the possible involvement of Maoists in the Telangana agitation, the Chief Minister said he could speak something on it only after a detailed investigation by police. He said many citizens called him following the violent incidents last Saturday and expressed concern over the security situation in Hyderabad.

"We have been staying here for decades but what will happen to us now? Can we live in peace," they asked me. "As the Chief Minister, I have to address their concerns and ensure that peace is maintained," Rosaiah said. Rosaiah, who left for New Delhi to greet Sonia Gandhi on her birthday, said he would discuss the Telangana issue "if she lends me an ear".