In a clear cut message of his opposition to the formation of Telangana state, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister-designate Mr Akhilesh Yadav said he was totally opposed to the idea of smaller states in the country and observed that newly formed states have not witnessed any development.

In an interview to a Telugu news channel in Delhi, Akhilesh said some people have been demanding the formation of Telangana state while others are opposing it. “If you form new states, you have to carve out new Districts, Divisions, Talukas and Blocks? Where will you get all the needed money for it? If you spend that amount on development of roads and electricity,
people will feel happy over that,” he said.

When asked whether his party will support the formation of Telangana state, he said his individual opinions have nothing to do with it. “My party will decide when the issue comes up in Parliament,” he said without mincing his words.

To a question on his party’s relations with YSRCP president YS Jaganmohan Reddy and TDP Chief Mr Chandrababu Naidu, Akhilesh said both of them are very close to him. “But time only will reveal our real friends,” he said, adding he has invited both of them to attend his swearing-in-ceremony.

Akhilesh said his main priority would be to concentrate on development of the state through providing proper infrastructure like roads and electricity and then encouraging new industries in the state for expanding employment opportunities. (J)