HM Amit Shah chairs 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting to discuss important inter-state disputes, security issues

The 31st South Zonal Council Meeting in Mahabalipuram near Chennai is underway. The meeting is chaired by the Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. 

The 31st South Zonal Council meeting under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah began in Mahabalipuram near Chennai, with leaders and senior officials from southern states discussing inter-state disputes, security and development priorities.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Kerala Chief Minister Satheesan, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, and Lt.Governor of Puducherry , Lt. Governor of Andaman Nicobar Islands, Administrator of Lakshdweep administrators and senior officials of various Ministries are attending the meeting.

Zonal Council meeting provide a systematic mechanism and an important forum for dialogue and discussion on issues affecting two or more states or the Centre and the states.

Discussions are underway on broad issues of national importance, which include the implementation of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for the speedy investigation and early disposal of cases of rape against women and children, as well as issues related to education, among others are also being discussed. The broader agenda included strengthening inter-state cooperation, internal security, economic growth, industrial investment, education and healthcare.