Biding time is best option: Andhra Cong leaders

Though the decks have seemingly been cleared for a separate Telangana state, those opposed to Andhra Pradesh's division are making last-minute attempts to stall the move.

Some central leaders, including ministers, from coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema regions have sent a two-page note to the Congress leadership, arguing for the second states re-organisation commission (SRC) to check the BJP's game plan.

"Once it is announced with a time frame and references, even the BJP will have to await its outcome. Even if the government of the day concurs or differs with its report, the Congress can always take advantage from it," the note stated. "Most importantly, it will not affect our poll fortunes and will be seen as an effort by the Congress to seek a scientific basis for dividing the state or keeping it united…In case the BJP comes to power at the centre, it can't take a decision without the SRC submitting its report," it pointed out.

The note also stated that the Justice BN Srikrishna committee, formed in January 2010, had reported that keeping the state united was the best option.

"The report has since been kept in the cold storage. Now, the Congress is trying to divide the state without any change in the circumstances. This only shows there was never a genuine commitment to implement manifestos or the Srikrishna report," it added.

Meanwhile, the home ministry has rushed an additional 1,000 paramilitary personnel to the state to deal with any situation arising out of a decision on Telangana. The additional forces, along with the existing 1,200 paramilitary men, are expected to be deployed in coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema.