Centre seized of situation in Andhra Pradesh: P Chidambaram

NEW DELHI: Government today asked agitating members from Andhra Pradesh to be patient as it was seized of the situation in the state in the wake of the 24-hour bandh called by pro-statehood groups.

Members from Andhra Pradesh raised the issue of deteriorating law and order in the state in view of the bandh that began at midnight and ever since the announcement of formation of Telangana state and sought to know as to what action was being taken by the Centre to control the situation.

Some members from the ruling Congress also wanted to speak, but were not allowed to do so by Deputy Chairman P J Kurien.

Senior Congress members also requested their colleagues from Andhra Pradesh not to press for raising the issue.

Making a brief statement on Andhra Pradesh, Finance Minister P Chidamabaram said, "I can understand the concern of members from the state on the situation in Andhra Pradesh especially with regard to the bandh."

"Government has listened carefully to the members from the state of Andhra Pradesh. They have expressed concern over the situation in Hyderabad. We have taken note of it. We are in touch with government of Andhra Pradesh. We will take all steps possible to maintain law and order, especially in Hyderabad. Be patient," he said.

Earlier, TDP members said there is no government in Andhra Pradesh and sought to know what steps the Centre was taking to control law and order there.