Q: Now that T is ready on a platter, what steps can assuage the feelings of Seemaandhras?
A: That is a good way of approaching the issue. It took more than 50 years for Centre to consider granting statehood to Telangana. After NDA carved out three states, it became almost impossible not to accede to the demand for Telangan state. It is neither logical nor practical to now demand that AP be kept united. I do agree that people have genuine concerns over water, jobs and education. All those from Andhra and Rayalaseema who have been living in Hyderabad for long or in recent years will automatically become citizens of T state. No questions need to be raised about this and whatever protection they are required to be given will be considered by the Centre.
Without stopping the process of bifurcation, all the contentious issues can be resolved through amicable discussions. They also need financial support to build a new capital and the Telangana government will extend every possible help in this regard. I am sure that over a period of time, both Telangana and Seemandhra will rank among the best states in the country.
Q: The TRS says they will not allow any concessions regarding the status of Hyderabad and that it should be the capital only for Telangana.
A: Why? Soon after the announcement, they have not resented the proposal of joint capital. In any case, how can you expect the new state to have a new capital immediately? It is not fair.
Q: How do you respond to the fast being undertaken by YSRC president Vijayamma protesting against the manner in which division is being done?
A: It is part of attempts to make political gains in Seemaandhra. I dont want to get into too many details but let me point out that the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy had once led a delegation to Delhi pleading for creation of a separate Telangana state.
Q: Do you think your party leaders from Seemaandhra will reconcile to division?
A: I think they will, finally. They have concerns regarding Hyderabad and a few other issues including support for building the new state. The Centre is already working in that direction. I expect the focus to shift in that direction very soon from the present position against bifurcation.
Q: What about Rayala-Telangana proposal? Is it still alive?
A: If you want my personal opinion, it is better to create Telangana state the manner in which it has already been announced. In fact, I don’t think there was such a proposal at all. In any case, if such a request comes from Rayalaseema leaders, it is for the Centre to consider it.
Q: What about the demand that Hyderabad should be made a Union Territory?
A: Such a question does not arise.