The agitation against the proposed bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh gathered momentum on Monday, as protesters staged demonstrations in different coastal towns. Impetus was added to the agitation as the general strike by the AP non-gazetted officers (NGOs) is set to begin from Monday midnight (in effect Tuesday).

In Visakhapatnam, different sections of the public — employees of different government departments, municipal employees, advocates, journalists and others — took out protest rallies and processions here on Monday which converged at the main junction of the city - Jagadamba Junction. There was no visible involvement of any political party, and speeches were made denouncing the move and condemning the Congress Party “for its rank opportunism in taking the decision at the juncture to garner the vote in Telangana and regain power at the Centre.”

Slogans were raised against K. Chandrasekhara Rao, Telangana separatist leader, and also against Sonia Gandhi. The agitators took a pledge that they would not allow the disintegration of the united Telugu state achieved after great sacrifices and the martyrdom of Potti Sriramulu.

Leaders of the AP NGOs' Association reaffirmed their decision to go on strike from Monday night, as the decision taken by the Congress and the UPA would not only have an adverse impact on their future but that of the State as well as the nation.

The Vizagpatam Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed support to the bandh call given by the Samaikhyandhra joint action committee for Tuesday and urged the trade to co-operate and shut down all shops and establishments to express solidarity with the agitators. The Cocanada Chamber of Commerce and Industry also took a similar decision in Kakinada town.

sarma.rs@the.hindu.co.in

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