In Andhra Pradesh, the normal life was paralysed in Rayalaseema and Coastalandhra regions today on the first day of the 72-hour long bandh in protest against the Union Cabinet approval to bifurcate the state. Sporadic incidents of stone pelting and attack on public, private properties have been reported from some places. The AP NGOs association called for 48-hpour long bandh while some political parties called for three day bandh.

The pro-United Andhra groups have demonstrated their anger and protest against the state division a day after the Union Cabinet approved the formation of separate Telangan state. Stray incidents of violence reported from some places on the first day of the three day bandh while 13 districts of Rayalaseema and Coastalandhra regions witnessed near total shutdown with thousands of people from all walks of life came on to streets protesting against the bifurcation. Offices, Educational institutions and commercial establishments have been closed. The agitators laid seize on the national highways at several places blocking vehicular traffic for tens of kilometers distance-lakshmi, airnews, Hyderabad.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy has directed the police to maintain peace and tranquility in the state and should not allow any kind of violence. He reviewed the law and order situation today at a high level meeting in Hyderabad in the wake of Seemandhra bandh. He directed the DGP and Home secretary to take all measures to protect public and private properties. The Chief Minister also held a meeting with ministers and MLAs from seemandhra regions to discuss the future course of action. Later, ministers told reporters that they will see to it that the Telangana bill be defeated in the Assembly.