Delegations call on Shinde

A day after UPA announced the creation of a separate Telangana state,a flurry of representations demanding creation of separate states landed up with the government. Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde Wednesday met delegations from Bodoland,Gorkhaland and Nagaland,who threatened to go on a hunger strike if their demands are not considered.

While Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio pressed for the creation of Greater Nagalim,Bodoland Territorial Council BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary reiterated the demand for Bodoland. We were told that there is no policy to create separate state of Bodoland,but you created Telangana. We should also be given the same consideration without any delay. If not,we will start a mass movement. Mohilary said. Mohilary said the government should start a dialogue with Bodo leaders immediately.

MHA officials are of the view that BTC does not represent the real Bodoland anymore,since it consists mainly of Bodos and not Muslims who are in majority now. A representation of Muslims from Assam recently raised voice against BTC demanding that geographical condition in areas of Assam have changed and they are in a majority now.

Sources in MHA said there is no move to form a State Reorganization Commission. It was also decided by the MHA that it will not move a Cabinet note on creation of Telangana immediately.

MHA officials fear that the demands may complicate and throw the Naga Peace Accord process off gear.