Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu rallies opposition in Delhi

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's day-long fast in the Capital nearly achieved its aim of showcasing Opposition solidarity against the BJP. Leaders from several Opposition parties joined Naidu at Andhra Bhavan, and also played their part in attacking the BJP. BSP supremo Mayawati, however, was conspicuous by her absence.

"The PM and the NDA government are dividing the country. They are building a hate campaign among people. Ultimately they want political gain, but we will not allow it to happen," said Naidu.

TDP had reportedly spent about Rs 1.2 crore to bring two trainloads of supporters from Andhra Pradesh. Former PM Manmohan Singh acknowledged Naidu's demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, NC's Farooq Abdullah, NCP's Majeed Memon, DMK's Tiruchi Siva and Trinamool Congress' Derek O'Brien were all present. Later in the day, former BJP leaders Shatrughan Sinha and Yashwant Sinha also visited Naidu.