The Hindu Business Line : AP Assembly dissolved

The Governor, Mr Surjeet Singh Barnala, and the Chief Minister, Mr N. Chandrababu Naidu, coming out of the main hall of Raj Bhavan in Hyderabad on Friday. Mr Naidu called on the Governor to recommend the dissolution of the State Assembly. - A. Roy Chowdhury

Hyderabad , Nov.14

ON a day of hectic developments, the Andhra Pradesh Governor, Mr Surjit Singh Barnala, accepted the recommendation of the Chandrababu Naidu Government for dissolution of the State Assembly, about nine months ahead of its five year-term, and asked him to head a caretaker Government.

Earlier in the day, a Cabinet meeting (1001st) presided by the Chief Minister resolved to dissolve the Assembly and seek a fresh mandate of the people. The resolution cited: "The opposition on its part has been playing an extremely opportunistic role by failing to take a clear stand on the issue of extremism. By urging the Government to hold talks with elements who have no respect for or faith in democracy, the opposition has been overtly encouraging extremism."

Mr Naidu, along with senior colleagues called on the Governor and recommended the dissolution of the House. While requesting Mr Naidu to continue as a caretaker Government, the Governor dissolved the Legislative Assembly in exercise of the powers conferred under the Article 174 (2) (b) of the Constitution.

Later speaking to newspersons, as a caretaker CM, Mr Naidu said the TD Government has been earnestly working for the allround development of the State. However, extremism poses a serious threat to the development of the State. It has become important, therefore, to go before the people and seek a clear mandate on the issue of extremist violence in the State.

Listing out various achievements during his tenure, Mr Naidu said extremism is adversely affecting investments into the State and negating the efforts of the Government to create opportunities for employment and a better life for the people of AP. It was also creating an atmosphere not conducive to industrialisation and economic progress of the State.

While the State was in favour of polls some time in January-February, a statement from the Chief Election Commissioner, Mr J.M. Lyngdoh, has maintained that it would not be possible to hold polls before February. However, the State is of the opinion that election in March may create problem, due to examinations for children.

Meanwhile, there was mixed reaction from various political parties, while Mr Bandaru Dattatreya, Union Minister for State, representing the BJP, described this as a bold decision, and a good move in the prevailing circumstances, the Congress Legislature Party Leader, Dr Y.S. Rajashekhar Reddy, described the reasons cited by the TDP as absurd. However, the Congress was prepared to go to the polls. The opposition party also called for President's rule in the State to ensure free and fair elections.

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