<<–2/”>a href=”https://exam.pscnotes.com/5653-2/”>p>The Six-Point Formula of 1973 was a political settlement reached between the Government of India and the leaders of Andhra Pradesh to address the regional disparities and demands for a separate Telangana state. It aimed to provide a framework for equitable development and ensure the unity of the state. The formula was enacted during President's rule in Andhra Pradesh following the resignation of Chief Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao due to the Jai Andhra movement.
Provisions of the Six-Point Formula
The Six-Point Formula laid down the following provisions:
Accelerated Development of Backward Areas: The formula recognized the need for accelerated development of the backward areas in Andhra Pradesh, with a particular focus on the Telangana region. It emphasized the allocation of specific Resources for this purpose and the active involvement of representatives from these areas in the planning and monitoring of development schemes.
Planned Development of the State Capital: The formula also stressed the importance of planned development of the state capital, Hyderabad, with adequate resources earmarked for this purpose. It recognized the need for Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE-development/”>Infrastructure Development and the creation of employment opportunities in the capital to cater to the growing Population.
Equitable Opportunities in Education and Employment: The formula addressed the issue of equitable opportunities in education and employment, a major source of discontent in the Telangana region. It proposed a system of local reservation in government jobs and educational institutions to ensure adequate representation for the people of different regions.
Regulation of Admissions to Educational Institutions: The formula introduced a system for regulating admissions to educational institutions, particularly in professional courses like medicine and engineering. This aimed to prevent the concentration of educational opportunities in a few areas and ensure equitable access for students from all regions.
Services and Posts Under Local Bodies: The formula provided for the reservation of certain services and posts under local bodies for the people of the respective areas. This aimed to empower local communities and ensure their participation in governance.
Review of Service Rules: The formula also proposed a review of the service rules for government employees to address the concerns of different regions and ensure fair treatment in matters of promotions and transfers.
Implementation and Impact
The Six-Point Formula was initially met with mixed reactions. While it was welcomed by some as a step towards addressing regional disparities, others criticized it as a compromise that fell short of meeting the demands for a separate Telangana state.
The implementation of the formula was a complex process, requiring the cooperation of various stakeholders and the enactment of new laws and regulations. The government took several steps to implement the formula, including the creation of a special development board for Telangana, the allocation of funds for development projects, and the introduction of local reservation in education and employment.
The formula had a mixed impact on the state of Andhra Pradesh. On the one hand, it led to some positive developments in the Telangana region, such as increased Investment in infrastructure, the creation of employment opportunities, and improved access to education. On the other hand, it did not fully address the underlying grievances and demands for a separate state, leading to continued agitation and unrest in the region.
Constitutional Amendment and Legal Challenges
To provide legal sanctity to the Six-Point Formula, the Indian Constitution was amended in 1973 through the 32nd Amendment Act. This amendment introduced ARTICLE 371-D, which empowered the President of India to issue orders for the implementation of the formula.
However, the constitutional validity of the Six-Point Formula was challenged in The Supreme Court. In the landmark case of P. Samatha vs. State of Andhra Pradesh (1997), the court upheld the validity of the formula, stating that it was a reasonable Classification aimed at achieving the legitimate objective of removing regional disparities.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
The Six-Point Formula of 1973 had a significant impact on the political and social landscape of Andhra Pradesh. It was a major attempt to address regional disparities and promote balanced development in the state. While it did not fully resolve the demands for a separate Telangana state, it laid the groundwork for future negotiations and compromises.
The formula's provisions on local reservation in education and employment have had a lasting impact on the state's social fabric. They have ensured greater representation for marginalized communities and helped to reduce regional disparities to some extent. However, the issue of regional imbalances and the demand for a separate Telangana state continued to simmer, eventually leading to the formation of Telangana as a separate state in 2014.
The Six-Point Formula serves as a reminder of the complex challenges of regional development and the importance of political dialogue and compromise in addressing them. It also highlights the role of the judiciary in upholding constitutional values and ensuring equitable development for all regions.