Resolution of bilateral issues between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh arising out of Reorganisation Act is likely to take more time due to the postponement of the crucial meeting convened by the Union Home Ministry.
The Union Home Ministry has invited the chief secretaries of the two States to come for a meeting convened in New Delhi on February 1 under the chairmanship of MHA’s special secretary. The invitation was also accompanied by a list of issues that are to be taken up for discussion during the meeting.
Even as the State Reorganisation wing officials of Telangana government were gearing to make an effective presentation in support of the State’s claims, the neighbouring State government had sought postponement of the meeting on the ground that the Legislative Assembly would be in session.
AP Bhavan
The agenda included crucial issues like division of Andhra Pradesh Bhavan, division of assets of Singareni Collieries Company Limited and setting up of Tribal University in Telangana. In respect of the SCCL, the AP government wanted that it should be apportioned between the States, which Telangana had objected.
The Telangana government on its part raised objection against the recommendation for allotment of APHMEL to Andhra Pradesh.
TS yet to reply
In respect of division of AP Bhavan, the neighbouring State had provided two options and these were sent to Telangana for its consent. “Response from Telangana is awaited despite reminders,” the communication from the MHA said.
Division of assets and liabilities of the erstwhile AP State Financial Corporation and the AP government’s claim for payment of dues for supply of power to Telangana power distribution companies amounting to ₹ 5,732 crore were included in the agenda. On the apportionment of assets and liabilities for 40 institutions under Schedule IX, the Ministry said the AP government had accepted the recommendations of the expert committee and requested the government of Telangana for necessary action.
The Telangana government was yet to respond on the issue and the Union Ministry had requested the government, in a letter addressed on January 21 this year, to furnish its comments on the issue, the agenda note said.