At a time when the Telangana issue all set to flare up once again with the general people’s strike (Sakala Janula Samme) from September 13, Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy took up the issue with the Centre on Saturday and expressed confidence that his government would tackle it.
The Chief Minister raised the Telangana issue, though indirectly, at the National Integration Committee meeting in New Delhi.
He said the State was always be vigilant in handling civil disturbances.
“Sometimes when the emotions of all sections of people in a particular State or region are high disturbing peace and tranquility, it is the responsibility of the government to tackle it delicately and restore balance,” he said.
Stating that such a situation normally demands a two-dimensional approach - political and administrative, Kiran warned that no decision (on state bifurcation) could be taken hastily.
“While arriving at any political decision, the government should take into consideration the emotions of the people as well as the long term repercussions of the decision contemplated. The State needs to take a larger view,” he said.
At the same time, Kiran said the disturbances with an emotional component cannot be tackled as a mere law and order problem.
“In any situation reflecting an atmosphere surcharged with people’s emotions, leaders, whether in or out of power, should observe restraint while making statements. Voicing one’s thoughts is freedom, but sometimes undue and indiscriminate comments of leaders on sensitive issues could complicate matters. In respect of civil disturbances with an emotional baggage, the police should play a responsible role while the political solution is being worked by the government,” he said.
