AP CM seeks cooperation of Oppn to restore peace

Hyderabad, Aug 26 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy today sought the cooperation of all political parties in restoring peace in the city and to instil confidence among the people in the wake of twin blasts here that claimed over 40 lives.

Addressing the leaders at an all-party meeting convened by the state government, the Chief Minister said police was doing every thing possible to prevent such incidents and to ease tension in the city.

Dr Reddy sought the cooperation of the people and requested all the political parties to cooperate with the government in bringing back peace and normalcy to the city.

Responding to request from the leaders of the political parties attending the meeting, Dr Reddy announced that ex gratia would be given as per the gravity of the injury.

The Chief Minister agreed to provide free treatment to the injured in any corporate hospital and also follow-up treatment till they fully recovered. He said the bodies would also be airlifted to their respective places.

Describing the blasts as an 'inhuman act' of blatant terrorism perpetrated by terrorists to create panic among the peace-loving people of the state in general and the city in particular, Dr Reddy said the government would put down the nefarious activities of the terrorists with an iron hand.

He said these subversive forces were bent on spreading terror in the country and the government would not allow this to happen.

The Chief Minister positively responded to the demands of the political parties to either order a judicial inquiry or a CBI inquiry into the blasts and appoint an expert team to probe deeply into the incident.

He, however said, he would consult Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, who would be arriving here, before formally announcing the inquiry.

The Chief Minister said,, 'let us stand united at this hour of crisis against the activities of terrorists. Let us show that we are united in protecting the life and property of the people and in maintaining law and order and peace in the state.'' Leaders of all political parties, condemned the incident and appreciated the efforts of the state government and police to preventing such incidents.

A unanimous resolution appealing the people to maintain claim was adopted by all political parties while condemning the blasts.

The leaders appealed to the people not to heed to any rumours and fully cooperate with the law enforcing authorities in bringing those behind the blasts to book.

UNI