Stressed on need for early solution to T before PM: Jaipal

Union Minister for Petroleum S Jaipal Reddy on Friday stated that given suggestions and possible solutions while stressing on the need to take an early decision on the contentious separate Telangana issue to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh while briefing him on the prevailing situation in the region.

Talking to media persons after emerging out of his meeting with the Prime Minister, Mr Jaipal Reddy said that he had suggested possible solutions to address the problem in his meeting which lasted for 40 minutes.

However, the Union Minister remained tightlipped when asked to divulge more details on what transpired between him and the Prime Minister.

Mr Jaipal Reddy however chose to say that he had suggested to the Prime Minister not to delay a decision on the issue further, which would precipitate the matter.

“I shared my views as a Telangana leader and not as a member of the Union Cabinet,” the Union Petroleum Minister said.

Mr Jaipal Reddy added that Dr Manmohan Singh gave a patient hearing to his suggestions and at time asked for more inputs on how to address the issue.

The Union Minister emphasized that the Prime Minister alone cannot take any decision on the issue and he has to consult the UPA allies and the Congress party before finalizing any decision.

Responding on speculation that President’s Rule could be imposed in the state, Mr Jaipal Reddy stated that the topic did not even figure in their talks.

He also made it clear that he is not aware of the decision the High Command will opt for on the Telangana statehood demand.

When asked about his opinion on Telangana, Mr Jaipal Reddy refused to be drawn into making a comment. However, he did say that he would make all possible efforts for the formation of the state from his side.

The Union Minister added that he had requested the Prime Minister to respect the resolution passed by the AP Assembly on deletion of Clause 14 F from the Presidential Order of 1975.