Question

In which year was Andhra state formed after independence ?

Hint:

Andhra was the first Indian state created on a linguistic basis in 1953 , following the 56-day fatal fast of Potti Sreeramulu. This historic event directly led to the setting up of the States Reorganisation Commission in 1953.

Answer 1

Concept: The reorganization of Indian states on a linguistic basis was one of the central political demands immediately following independence. The demand aimed to align administrative boundaries with major linguistic populations to ensure effective governance, cultural preservation, and democratic representation.

Step 1: Trace the historical demand for a Telugu-speaking state.
After independence, the Telugu-speaking region was part of the multi-lingual Madras State. The demand for a separate state for Telugu speakers gained widespread momentum under the leadership of Potti Sreeramulu, a prominent Gandhian activist.

Step 2: Key events leading up to the formation in 1953.
Potti Sreeramulu undertook an indefinite fast (fast unto death) demanding the immediate creation of a separate Andhra state. After 56 days of fasting, Potti Sreeramulu passed away on December 15, 1952. His death sparked widespread agitation, violent protests, and public unrest across the Telugu-speaking regions.

Step 3: Formal creation of the state.
Responding to the intense mass movement and public outcry, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru announced the formation of a separate Andhra state in December 1952. The new state was officially carved out of the Telugu-speaking districts of Madras State on October 1, 1953 , making Andhra the first state in independent India to be created strictly on a linguistic basis. This eventually led to the appointment of the States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) in 1953.