Expedite formation of separate state: Telangana leaders

The Telangana leaders requested the president to ensure that the assembly sent back the bill to him with its views in the prescribed time. "An early decision on the issue is better for both the regions," said Hanumantha Rao.

The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill, 2013, approved by the union cabinet earlier this month was sent by the president to the state assembly.

He has asked the assembly to return the bill with its views by Jan 23.

The bill was last week tabled in the assembly but the house was adjourned without debate as Seemandhra legislators opposing the bifurcation stalled the proceedings.

The bill is likely to come up for discussion during the second phase of the assembly's winter session beginning Jan 3.

The session will continue till Jan 23. The house will have Sankranti holidays from Jan 10 to 15.

Makar Sankarnti, Jan 14, is celebrated widely across the southern states.