<<–2/”>a href=”https://exam.pscnotes.com/5653-2/”>p>Background and Historical Context
The Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Act, 2014, marks a significant event in Indian political history, leading to the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and the creation of Telangana as the 29th state of India. The demand for Telangana statehood is rooted in historical, socio-economic, and cultural grievances dating back to the mid-20th century when Andhra Pradesh was formed by merging Andhra and Telangana regions in 1956. The Telangana region, part of the erstwhile princely state of Hyderabad, felt marginalized in terms of development, resource allocation, and political representation, fueling a sustained movement for statehood.
Genesis of the Act
The movement for Telangana gained renewed momentum in the early 2000s, particularly under the Leadership of K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). The demand for statehood culminated in widespread protests, fast-unto-death campaigns, and significant political pressure on the central government. In December 2009, the central government announced the initiation of the process to form Telangana, leading to the formation of the Srikrishna Committee to examine the issue. The committee's report in 2010 outlined several Options but did not provide a definitive solution, leaving the decision to the political leadership.
Political Developments Leading to the Act
The period between 2010 and 2013 witnessed intense political activity, with ongoing agitations in Telangana and counter-agitations in the Andhra and Rayalaseema regions. The Congress party, which held power at the center and in Andhra Pradesh, faced internal divisions. Key developments included:
December 2012 All-Party Meeting: An all-party meeting on December 28, 2012, indicated the central government's intent to resolve the issue. The then Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde announced that a decision on Telangana would be taken within a month, though it took longer due to the need for broader consultations.
July 30, 2013 Announcement: A breakthrough came on July 30, 2013, when the Congress Working Committee (CWC) endorsed the formation of Telangana. The central government decided to bifurcate Andhra Pradesh, making Hyderabad the joint capital for both states for ten years.
Key Provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, provided the legal framework for bifurcating Andhra Pradesh and addressed various administrative, financial, and legal issues. Some key provisions included:
Territorial Division: The act specified the territorial division, creating Telangana with ten districts from the existing state of Andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad was designated as the joint capital for both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for ten years, after which Andhra Pradesh would develop a new capital.
Distribution of Assets and Liabilities: The act detailed the distribution of assets, liabilities, and government employees between the two states. This included Public Sector Undertakings, Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE, and financial Resources. Special provisions were made for equitable allocation to ensure a balanced start for both states.
Water and Power Resources: Provisions for the management and sharing of Water Resources from rivers like Krishna and Godavari were included. The act established river water management boards to oversee the distribution of water and power resources to ensure equitable access for both states.
Legal and Administrative Framework: The act included provisions for establishing a common High Court until separate high courts for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh were constituted. It also addressed the reorganization of administrative and police Services, ensuring continuity in governance.
Development Packages: Special financial packages and incentives were proposed to support the development of the residual Andhra Pradesh, particularly for building a new capital and promoting economic Growth. These packages aimed to address the economic concerns arising from the bifurcation.
Educational and Medical Institutions: The act ensured that existing educational and medical institutions would continue to serve both states until new institutions were established. It provided for the equitable distribution of seats and resources to prevent disruption in Education and healthcare services.
Legislative Process and Passage in Parliament
Following the CWCs endorsement, the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Bill, 2014, was introduced in Parliament, marking the final phase of the legislative process.
Introduction of the Bill: The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, on February 13, 2014. The introduction was met with protests from some members, particularly from Seemandhra, who opposed the bifurcation.
Debate in Lok Sabha: The debate in the Lok Sabha on February 18, 2014, was marked by high emotions and disruptions. The bill was eventually passed amidst protests, with the use of a voice vote. The proceedings saw dramatic scenes, including a blackout of the live telecast to prevent disruption by agitating members.
Debate in Rajya Sabha: The bill was then introduced in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament, on February 20, 2014. The debate in the Rajya Sabha was equally contentious, with members expressing their views both in favor of and against the bifurcation. The bill was passed with a majority vote, overcoming significant opposition.
Implementation and Transition
Following the passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, the central government took several steps to implement the provisions and ensure a smooth transition.
Appointment of Committees: Various committees were appointed to oversee the implementation of the bifurcation process. These committees were responsible for addressing issues related to the division of assets, allocation of resources, and administrative restructuring.
Notification and Inauguration: The central government issued a notification on March 1, 2014, formally declaring the formation of Telangana. Telangana officially came into existence on June 2, 2014, marking the culmination of the long-standing demand for statehood. The new state of Telangana was inaugurated, with K. Chandrashekar Rao becoming its first Chief Minister.
Administrative Adjustments: The central and state governments worked together to implement administrative adjustments, including the allocation of government employees and the establishment of new administrative offices. Efforts were made to ensure continuity in governance and public services during the transition period.
Development Initiatives: Special development initiatives were launched for both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The central government provided financial assistance and support for infrastructure projects, Economic Development, and social welfare programs to promote balanced regional development.
Political Reactions and Public Response
The passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, elicited a range of political reactions and public responses, reflecting the complex and contentious nature of the issue.
Support in Telangana: The declaration was met with jubilation in Telangana, where the demand for statehood had been a long-standing aspiration. Public celebrations, rallies, and cultural events were organized to mark the historic occasion. Political leaders and activists who had championed the Telangana cause hailed the decision as a victory for the people.
Opposition in Seemandhra: In contrast, the decision was met with protests and apprehension in the residual Andhra Pradesh (Seemandhra). Political leaders and public figures expressed concerns about the economic and administrative implications of the bifurcation. There were fears about the loss of revenue from Hyderabad and the challenges of building a new capital.
National Political Reactions: National Political Parties had mixed reactions to the decision. While parties like the BJP supported the creation of Telangana, others expressed concerns about the process and its implications for other regional demands for statehood. The Congress party, which was in power, faced internal divisions and criticism for its handling of the issue.
Long-Term Implications and Legacy
The creation of Telangana has had significant long-term implications and has left a lasting legacy on the political and socio-economic landscape of the region.
Political Realignment: The bifurcation led to a political realignment in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The TRS emerged as the dominant political force in Telangana, while the TDP and other parties had to recalibrate their strategies in the residual state. The creation of Telangana also influenced regional politics in other parts of India, inspiring similar demands for statehood.
Economic Development: Both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh embarked on new development paths following the bifurcation. Telangana focused on leveraging its strengths in IT and Industry, while Andhra Pradesh prioritized building a new capital and promoting Investment in infrastructure and agriculture. The bifurcation also highlighted the need for balanced regional development and equitable resource allocation.
Cultural Identity: The formation of Telangana reinforced the cultural identity of the region. Efforts were made to promote Telanganas language, festivals, and traditions, contributing to a renewed sense of pride and cultural heritage. The legacy of the movement continues to shape the social and cultural dynamics of the state.
Governance and Administration: The bifurcation posed significant governance and administrative challenges, but it also provided an opportunity for both states to innovate and improve their administrative systems. The experience of managing the transition and addressing the complex issues of resource allocation and Infrastructure Development has provided valuable lessons for future state reorganizations.
National Policy and Federalism: The creation of Telangana has influenced national policy and the discourse on federalism in India. It underscored the importance of addressing regional aspirations and grievances within the framework of Indias federal structure. The experience highlighted the need for responsive governance and the effective management of state reorganization processes.
The Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Act, 2014, was a landmark piece of legislation that addressed the long-standing demand for Telangana statehood while ensuring a balanced approach to the development of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The act provided a comprehensive framework for the bifurcation process, addressing critical issues such as resource allocation, administrative restructuring, and development initiatives. The successful implementation of the act and the subsequent development of both states stand as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of addressing regional aspirations within Indias federal framework.