Date:21/11/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/11/21/stories/2007112162081000.htm

Andhra Pradesh

MSP issue: 15 members suspended in A.P. Council

Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD: Ahead of Wednesday’s Statewide bandh by the Opposition demanding higher support prices for 13 agricultural commodities, political parties vied aggressively with one another in both Houses of the Legislature to champion the cause of farmers.

As a result, pandemonium marked the conclusion of the ten-day long winter session of the Assembly while the Council adjourned sine die on Tuesday evening after suspension of 15 Opposition members in the morning session.

Slogan-shouting Telugu Desam Party members staged a dharna in the well of the Assembly, demanding increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy to Rs. 1,000 a quintal.

The TDP, Left and TRS members came to the Assembly carrying paddy sheaves and cotton plants. They staged a dharna at the entrance later accusing the Government of running away from the debate and not doing enough to pressure the Centre.