On 7th December 2009, Chief Minister K. Rosaiah convened an all-party meeting to discuss the Telangana issue. The meeting was attended by nine political parties, including Lok Satta. Most parties expressed their support for Telangana statehood, except MIM and CPI(M). While CPI(M) opposed the formation of Telangana, MIM reserved its decision, stating that it would take a stand after internal discussions.
During the meeting, Chandrababu Naidu alleged that Congress was against Telangana. He further declared that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) would support Telangana if Congress introduced a resolution in the assembly. In response, Rosaiah clarified that the state Congress had no independent stance and that the final decision rested with the All India Congress Committee (AICC).
Health Bulletin and Human Rights Commission Order
On 8th December 2009, NIMS hospital issued a health bulletin, stating that KCR’s life was at risk if he continued his hunger strike. His deteriorating health led to increasing concerns among Telangana supporters and political leaders.
The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), led by Chairman B. Subhashan Reddy, intervened in the matter. The commission ordered the forced administration of saline if KCR refused to end his fast, citing the threat to his life. This directive intensified the political pressure on the government to take immediate action.
Parliamentary Discussions and Chidambaram’s Statement
On 9th December 2009, the Telangana issue was raised in Parliament, with multiple political leaders urging the central government to intervene. L.K. Advani, Sharad Yadav, and Mulayam Singh were among those who demanded a resolution. CPI leader Gurudas Gupta called for an all-party meeting to discuss the Telangana crisis further.
On the same day, Home Minister P. Chidambaram made a historic announcement, stating:
“The process of forming the state of Telangana will be initiated, and an appropriate resolution will be moved in the state assembly.”
Following this declaration, Prof. Jaya Shankar broke KCR’s 11-day hunger strike by offering him lemon juice. This marked a significant victory for the Telangana movement.
Protests in Seemandhra
Chidambaram’s statement triggered massive protests in the Seemandhra region. In response to the announcement, 140 MLAs, 20 MPs, and 30 MLCs from Andhra Pradesh resigned, opposing the formation of Telangana. The situation escalated quickly, leading to widespread unrest.
Under immense pressure from the Seemandhra leadership, the central government issued a second statement on 23rd December 2009. This time, the government clarified that the Telangana process would proceed only after a resolution was passed in the state assembly. This reversal led to further protests, marking a new phase in the Telangana agitation