AP's bifurcation was not an easy decision: Sonia

AICC President Sonia Gandhi on Saturday said that the decision to divide Andhra Pradesh was not an easy one.

"The formation of two states has become a reality. This was not an easy decision, but now we must look forward. I'm aware that this decision has caused some of you great pain and I fully empathise with you. I not grudge your criticism or anger and I understand your sentiment. But as you are aware that there is a long history to the creation of Telangana and that uncertainty has to be brought to an end," said Sonia Gandhi while addressing a public meeting at Andhra Muslim College Grounds here.

Sonia Gandhi said that all political parties, except for CPI (M) supported the Telangana formation. Former Chief Minister Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy too have made his stand clear in support of Telangana in the Assembly in February 2009, she said.

She said that the reorganisation has been done in a manner to protect the interest of Seemandhra people. For the first time, in the Reorganiation Act itself, a special development package has been announced. While farmers' interests were fully protected, mechanism is being devised for proper sharing of Godavari and Krishna water. She said that the centre will provide 90 per cent funding for the development of Polavaram project which will benefit 10 lakh farmers.

"My party is committed to protecting physical, social, cultural and financial interests of every single person from Seemandhra residing in Hyderabad," Sonia Gandhi said.

The Congress leaders were upset over the poor turnout at the public meeting.