By IANS
Hyderabad : Andhra Pradesh Thursday celebrated the 51st anniversary of its formation as the linguistic state, but regional parties in Telangana observed ‘betrayal day’ to protest the region’s merger five decades ago with Andhra Pradesh on the basis of common language.
Meetings and rallies across the state marked the day to recall the services of leaders who fought for the formation of a common state for all Telugu-speaking people.
The main function was held in the state capital with Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy unfurling the national flag and reviewing an impressive parade at the NTR Stadium. A colourful cultural programme was also organised on the occasion.
In his speech, the chief minister reiterated his government’s commitment to the overall development of the state, and emphasised the need to maintain the state’s unity.
He pledged his commitment to complete the ambitious ‘Jalayagnam’ programme to irrigate 10 million acres of land. He pointed out that 1.5 million acres of land was irrigated during last 42 months, and alleged that the opposition parties were creating hurdles in the programme.
The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS), which is spearheading a movement for a separate Telangana, and some smaller parties observed protests during the day. They alleged that injustice was done to the region with the rulers from Andhra going back on all the assurances given at the time of merger.
In Hyderabad, TRS ideologue Jayashankar paid rich tributes to the martyrs who fought for a separate Telangana.
The party took out a rally in Secunderabad. Tensions prevailed in Warangal when TRS activists took out a procession and clashed with the police.
The Telangana region comprises nine districts, including Hyderabad, and witnessed violent movement for a separate state in 1970s. The TRS revived the movement about five years ago.
It was on Nov 1, 1956, that Telangana, which was then a part of erstwhile princely state of Hyderabad, was merged with Andhra To form the first Indian state based purely on common language with Hyderabad as its capital.
Earlier on Sep 1, 1953, Telugu-speaking Rayalseema and coastal Andhra areas of Madras State were separated to form Andhra state with Kurnool as its capital.
This followed the death of Telugu leader Potti Sriramulu in December 1952 after 56-day long fast to press for the demand for a separate state for Telugus.