Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy today quit his post and primary membership of Congress party, protesting against the move for state's division. Governor E S L Narasimhan has accepted the resignation. Before tendering his resignation, Mr Reddy expressed his strong protest against the decision of the Central Government to divide Telugu speaking people for what he termed the sake of votes and seats.

Stating that the interests of people on both sides will be damaged, he held the political parties including Congress responsible for the bifurcation. He also strongly condemned the alleged violations of democratic practices adopted by the Centre during the passage of the AP Reorganisation Bill in the Lok Sabha.

Reddy did not specify his future political action, including floating a new party. Eight state ministers and over 25 MLAs also went to meet the Governor along with Mr. Reddy.

In Andhra Pradesh, normal life has been crippled in Seemandhra region today due to the bandh called in protest against the state's bifurcation. Several groups including political parties like Telugu Desam and YSR Congress gave separate bandh calls, opposing the division. Near total shut down is being observed in 13 districts of Rayalaseema and Coastal Andhra regions with educational institutions, shops and business establishments remaining closed. Transport has been the worst hit.