The call for Telangana Bandh evoked mixed response and passed off peacefully today amidst tight security. Normal life remained unaffected in Hyderabad by and large. Its impact was more in rural areas than urban areas. It was incident-free.

The bandh was called to protest against passage of AP Reorganisation Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha. Left parties and Telangana Joint Action Committee gave the call for the bandh protesting the merger of seven mandals in Khammam district of Telangana with Andhra Pradesh for construction of Polavaram project.

Dharnas, rallies and rasta roko protests were held at several places in support of the bandh. Public transport was affected in all Telangana districts barring Hyderabad with the Left parties and the Telangnana Joint Action Committee – obstructing bus services. As a result, RTC buses remained off the roads in most of the areas till afternoon. However, RTC sevices resumed by evening. Leaders from the TRS, Congress and the left parties took part in the dharnas held at several places. Chairman of the committee Prof Kodandaram took part in the agitation at RTC cross roads in Hyderabad.

Educational institutions and business establishments were closed voluntarily. Government offices were also closed down at some places. Bandh was fully effective in Bhadrachalam division of Khamam district with tribals also taking part in agitations demanding withdrawal of Polavaram bill.