TELANGANA MOVEMENT

PRERNA FOR IAS

TELANGANA MOVEMENT

(MISC.SUBJECTS)

1. Introduction / Background of Telangana Movement

The Telangana Movement was a long-standing struggle for a separate state from the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh. After the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, Telangana from the former Hyderabad State was merged with Andhra State to form Andhra Pradesh. Many people in Telangana felt that promises regarding employment, education, irrigation, and resource allocation were not adequately implemented. Concerns over regional imbalance, cultural identity, and political representation led to growing dissatisfaction. The Gentlemen’s Agreement of 1956 attempted to protect Telangana’s interests but failed to fully address grievances. These issues eventually gave rise to a strong movement demanding separate statehood.

2. Main Causes of the Telangana Movement

Several factors contributed to the Telangana Movement. People perceived unequal development between Telangana and coastal Andhra regions. Concerns existed regarding the allocation of river waters from the Krishna and Godavari rivers and the implementation of irrigation projects. Telangana residents also felt disadvantaged in government employment opportunities despite safeguards such as Mulki Rules. Cultural concerns played a significant role, as many feared the erosion of Telangana’s unique dialect, traditions, and historical identity. Political underrepresentation and demands for greater self-governance further strengthened the movement. Together, these economic, social, cultural, and political issues fueled the demand for a separate Telangana state.

3. Important Phases and Timeline

The Telangana issue evolved over several decades. In 1956, Telangana merged with Andhra State to form Andhra Pradesh. The Jai Telangana Movement gained momentum in 1969, demanding a separate state. In 2001, K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) founded the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) to achieve statehood. The movement intensified after KCR’s hunger strike in 2009. The Srikrishna Committee was established in 2010 to examine the issue. In July 2013, the Congress Working Committee supported Telangana’s creation. Parliament passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act in 2014, and Telangana officially became India’s 29th state on 2 June 2014.

4. Key Outcomes and Significance