Mission group concerned over Telangana chaos

The political storm over separate Telangana in Andhra Pradesh has disturbed its regular activities, says a mission group.

"Many of our Children's Bible Clubs and adult literacy classes in this region have not been meeting for the past two weeks," says Dave Stravers of Mission India.

"Normally, they meet every day. But when these things happen, people are fearful. They stay home. It really is a big obstacle to doing ministry when you have this kind of civil unrest," he added.

On December 9, 2009, the Government of India announced that it plans to introduce a resolution in the state assembly seeking separation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh.

The state since then is in turmoil with students and workers on strike. More than 130 MLAs seem to have resigned. In addition, the assembly was not able to function and was adjourned sine die.

Telangana state is likely to comprise the 10 districts of Andhra Pradesh â€" the area that constituted the old Hyderabad state during British times. It includes Hyderabad, the current Andhra capital.

The decision came on a day when in Lok Sabha leaders cutting across party lines expressed concern over the health of TRS chief Rao and urged for immediate intervention by the Centre.

State-owned Road Transport Corp (RTC) buses remained off the roads in most of the 13 districts in the two regions while road blockades hit the movement of vehicles.

Shops, businesses, banks and educational institutions remained closed in all cities and major towns.

The protesters took out rallies, staged road and rail blockades, hitting train services. They also attacked buses and trucks at several places.

With rioting still in full force, Mission India's Stravers has requested prayers for social and political peace so life can return to normal.