The prospects of a separate Telangana state being carved out of Andhra Pradesh have naturally struck a chord with Teluguites in Bangalore. An overwhelming majority of them whom DNA questioned wanted Andhra Pradesh to remain united. GS Mohan, a Telugu scholar and former head of the department of Telugu in Bangalore University, spoke to DNA about his fears over the creation of Telangana and the possible repercussions.
Is the creation of a separate Telangana the only solution for redressing the grievances of the people of the region?
The situation has crossed that phase. Under the prevailing circumstances, the creation of Telangana appears imminent as the youth and students of the region are refusing to settle for anything less.
What is the general feeling among Telugu diaspora in Bangalore about the developments?
Although a segment of those hailing from Telangana region supports the agitation, the overwhelming majority wants Andhra Pradesh to remain united.
What consequences do you foresee if Telangana becomes a reality?
It will lead to further division of Andhra Pradesh. Rayalaseema could be the next and the agitation for a separate state comprising the coastal districts will be revived. This could lead to a scary scenario of Andhra Pradesh getting balkanised into three or even four states. This is sad as thousands of Telugu patriots had fought for a united state as a home for all the Telugu-speaking people. It is unfortunate that Telugu -peaking people will be divided and there is also a scare of fresh animosity emerging on sharing of the land, water resources and the right over the capital city of Hyderabad.
What could be the ideal way out to resolve the claim on Hyderabad by both Andhra Pradesh and the proposed Telangana?
It is better to declare it as a joint capital of both. This could prevent bad blood between the people of the ‘two states’.
Andhra Pradesh has invested huge funds in developing Hyderabad as a global IT hub and the engine of economic growth for the state.It will be huge loss for Andhra Pradesh if Hyderabad goes to Telangana. In such a case, the Centre should provide funds for Andhra Pradesh to build a new capital.
Do you think factionalism in AP Congress over the leadership of Rosaiah has fuelled the present crisis in that state?
Although such reports are doing the rounds, it is not appropriate to speak anything about it without strong evidence.
Comments