KTR marks ‘Vijay Divas’ as the first step towards Telangana formation

December 9 holds a historic significance in the story of Telangana’s formation. Former minister K. T. Rama Rao (KTR) described this day as “Vijay Divas” (Victory Day), marking the first step towards the creation of the state, which completed 16 years yesterday.

KTR highlighted the relentless struggle of people from all walks of life, the sacrifices of thousands of activists, and the ultimate dedication of martyrs, particularly the role of TRS (now BRS) chief K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR). He recalled how KCR’s indefinite hunger strike in 2009 compelled the central government to take the first official step towards Telangana’s statehood.

“The hunger strike shook the capital and became the turning point in the movement. Without the ‘Deeksha Divas,’ there would be no ‘Vijay Divas,’ and without ‘Vijay Divas,’ there would be no Telangana on June 2, 2014,” KTR said.

Former minister and BRS leader Harish Rao emphasized that December 9, 2009, officially marked the beginning of Telangana’s separate statehood journey. He said that the hunger strike, which began on November 29, 2009, was a direct catalyst that ignited nationwide support for Telangana, eventually prompting the central government to start the state formation process. According to him, November 29 (Deeksha Divas), December 9 (Vijay Divas), and June 2, 2014 (Telangana Formation Day) are etched in golden letters in the state’s history.

Harish Rao also noted that the Telangana movement was shaped by KCR’s leadership, the sacrifices of thousands, student protests, and the blood of martyrs, representing the collective spirit of four million Telangana people. He said the story of the movement is indelible, and December 9 serves as a constant reminder of the people’s determination and Telangana’s pride.

To mark Vijay Divas, former minister Errabelli Dayakar Rao led ceremonies at Parvatagiri Mandal, including abhishekam to Telangana Thalli statues and floral tributes to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, urging people to remember the sacrifices and spirit of the movement that made Telangana a reality.