‘Special status for Andhra is not just a demand, it is our right’

NEW DELHI: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP TG Venkatesh spoke to HT’s

Kumar Uttam just before sixteen of the party’s MPs decided to resign from the central government on Wednesday. The industrialist-politician said that snapping ties was an option the party was considering. Excerpts:

Why are you demanding special category status for Andhra Pradesh?

The Congress and the BJP divided the state mercilessly. The Congress thought it will sweep Andhra Pradesh and the BJP thought it will win Telangana. Both parties joined hands in Parliament to divide the state. After Telangana was carved out, Andhra Pradesh needs special category status to develop. It was promised... and the government is now backtracking. It is our right not just a demand.

The Centre has said special category status is not possible under the 14th Finance Commission. Will TDP accept anything less?

The Centre’s argument is flawed. They said no special status can be given and then extended facilities and concessions to states such as Himachal Pradesh which already has the status. The Centre also tried to play tricks with the special package it promised. We did not get anything.

Isn’t the TDP being unreasonable in asking for something not permissible by law?

times, which other law or provision cannot be changed? Any government needs to have the intention. If the government has the intention to give Andhra Pradesh a special category status, no law can stop it.

Do you see a way out of the present situation?

The Centre told us that special category status for Andhra Pradesh might be opposed by neighbouring states. Instead of saying a categorical no to our demand, the BJP should have shown flexibility. They could have said special category status can be allowed for certain industries. They firm no to special status has angered the people in Andhra Pradesh.

What are the options before the TDP?

An action plan is being discussed. There are certain options before us. We can say ‘ram ram’ (goodbye) to the BJP. Our members of Parliament can resign. We can pull out of the government. Either we take a decision in one go or step by step, Andhra Pradesh chief minister will take that decision. Almost 99% of TDP MPs and MLAs are in favouring of saying goodbye to the

NDA.