AP Houses begin debate on T-Bill amid ruckus

After days of disruptions of proceedings, both the Houses of Andhra Pradesh Legislature have initiated discussion on the State Reorganisation Bill.

Though very brief, Seemandhra leader and Tourism Minister Vatti Vasantha Kumar started the discussion in the Assembly amid protests by Seemandhra legislators, who are opposing the bifurcation of the State.

The House, which was adjourned twice in the morning, met in the afternoon only to witness protests by the legislators. Finance Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy appealed to members to resume seats and express their opinions on the bill.

He said the main Opposition party Telugu Desam had sought certain information and “we will give it to them soon.”

The Speaker asked Vasantha Kumar to start the discussion after the members returned to their seats. The Minister said they opposed the Bill as it went against the interests of people in Andhra and Rayalaseema regions. But a few minutes later, the Speaker adjourned the House as the YSR Congress Party members resumed protests.

The Legislative Council, however, has seen a relatively positive scene. Though adjourned in the first session, it began a discussion on the importance of initiating a dialogue on the bill. Council Chairman Chakrapani advised the members to take part in the debate and come out with suggestions.

The mood in both the Houses, however, has certainly changed in the last two days. Several members felt that discussion might start from tomorrow. Congress members, particularly from Telangana region, are working on an affidavit, indicating their suggestions on the provisions of the bill.

“We will give our suggestions but will highlight the point that there is no scope for a vote on the Bill,” a senior Congress member told on condition of anonymity.

kurmanath.kanchi@thehindu.co.in