The high-level committee headed by Justice B N Srikrishna on Telangana will hold its first meeting in New Delhi today. The meeting comes a day after the Government announced the terms of references for the five member committee which will submit its report by the 31st of December.<br/><br/>The seven-point terms of reference says that the committee will examine the situation in Andhra Pradesh with reference to the demand for a separate state of Telangana as well as the demand for maintaining the present status of the united Andhra Pradesh. It will also review the developments in the state since its formation and their impact on the progress of different regions of the state. <br/><br/>Bandh is being observed today amidst tight security in Telangana region in protest against terms of reference set for the committee. Almost all pro-Telangana parties and organisations have extended support to the bandh called by the Student Joint Action Committee. Normal life across the region is partially affected due to bandh. Hundreds of activists from student organisations and political parties came to the streets in various districts. The agitators are holding protest rallies and processions across the region. About 20 buses were partially damaged when the agitators pelted stones on them.<br/><br/>Despite inconvenience, commuters are feeling a bit relief as the State Road Transport Corporation, APSRTC is operating its services partially across the region. However, long distance buses were suspended since Friday. The transportation of essential commodities like milk and vegetables has been spared at some places. Shops, petrol pumps and business entities are being operated partially. Educational institutions are closed and some Universities have postponed all examinations scheduled today.<br/><br/>Meanwhile, section 144 has been clamped in Hyderabad and additional forces have been deployed in huge number at all important places especially on Osmani University campus to maintain strict vigil to avoid any untoward incident. Police have taken into custody scores of political activists who are holding protest demonstrations disrupting traffic on highways.
News On AIR | February 13, 2010 11:41 AM
Committee on Telangana to meet today; TSJAC calls bandh