Kiran says he is not against small States, respects T sentiment

Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy on Tuesday said he was not against small states as was being talked about by certain parties and leaders. Talking to reporters in his Assembly chambers, the Chief Minister said that he respected the aspirations of the people of Telangana region and their sentiment. "The new AICC in-charge of the State Digvijay Singh was also fully aware of the issue and we also want a quick decision on the issue," he added.

When asked if that were the case why did the government convert the city into a fortress during the Chalo Assembly, Kiran Kumar said, though agitations are part of any movement no responsible government can ignore law and order and as CM it is his duty to ensure that the life and property of people are protected. While doing so, he said he had no option but to take all necessary measures in that direction. He said in the recent past there was no agitation which had witnessed such least violence.

Asked about the two ministers inducted from Andhra region into the Union Cabinet, Kiran Kumar said, "Don't make it an issue. Last time two ministers from T region were inducted into the Cabinet. They are all ministers for the entire country not region or sub-region."

He said in the State Law Secretary, Public Prosecutor and Advocate General were from the T region and nobody talks about them. In all such selections nothing is done intentionally; various parameters are taken into account, the CM said. Replying to another question on the impression that Congress was on a downswing in Seemandhra and in bad shape in Telangana, Kiran Kumar said that he did not agree with this assessment.

He said the party will increase its graph by the time they go to polls in 2014. "Mark my words, Congress will get more seats and will form the government both in the State and at the Centre," he added.