In Andhra Pradesh, normal life has been paralysed in 13 districts of Seemandhra regions following a 72-hour bandh called by Pro-United Andhra organizations. They are protesting against the Union Cabinet's nod to carve out a separate Telangana state.

An almost total shutdown is being observed with thousands of people from all walks of life coming on to the streets since morning in protest against the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.Tension prevailed in some places when agitators thronged government offices and surrounded the houses of public representatives at some places. The agitators laid seige to national highways at several places blocking vehicular traffic.

On the other hand, celebrations broke out in Telangana region following the clearance for formation of the new state. Deputy Chief Minister Damodara Rajanarasimha and senior ministers from the region have appealed to teh people of Seemandhra region to cooperate for bifurcation, for development of both the regions.

All regions of the state have been put on alert following fresh developments and the advisory from the Centre to tighten security in view of the festive season ahead. Director General of Police Prasad Rao has reviewed the law and order situation with district SPs and senior police officials. Additional forces have been deployed in all important and sensitive areas of the state to avert any untoward incident.

Meanwhile, hectic parleys continued among political circles as parties began reviewing the situation in the wake of the Union Cabinet's approval to carve out Telangana. Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy will be meeting Ministers and Congress leaders from Seemandhra regions to discuss the future course of action. TDP, TRS and YSR Congress leaders will also be holding crucial meetings to discuss the fresh developments.

Meanwhile Human Resource Development Minister M M Pallam Raju has announced that he will resign in protest against the Cabinet decision to bifurcate Andhra Pradesh to create a separate Telangana state.

Talking to reporters in New Delhi, Pallam Raju said, he is offended and aggrieved by the Cabinet decision. He said, it was done in haste without understanding concerns and sentiments of the people of the Seemandhra region. Mr Raju said, he will meet the Prime Minister to submit his resignation letter.