Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The demand for the reorganisation of states on a linguistic basis gained momentum in the pre-independence era, fueled by the growth of regional identities and the Indian National Congress’s initial reluctance to fully embrace the idea. Post-independence, the issue became a significant political challenge, culminating in the formation of the States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) in 1953 under the chairmanship of K.M. Panikkar. The SRC’s recommendations, implemented between 1956 and 1966, fundamentally reshaped the political map of India. While initially viewed with apprehension by some, the reorganisation of states on linguistic lines is widely considered a major step towards national consolidation and integration, fostering a sense of belonging and facilitating administrative efficiency.
Historical Context & Pre-Independence Movements
The seeds of linguistic reorganisation were sown during the Indian freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress, initially wary of exacerbating regionalism, adopted a cautious approach. However, the growing demand for recognition of distinct linguistic identities became undeniable. The Andhra movement of the 1920s and 30s, led by Potti Sreeramulu, demanding a separate Andhra state based on Telugu language, was a pivotal moment. Sreeramulu’s self-immolation in 1952 intensified the pressure on the government.
The States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) – 1953
In response to the escalating demands, the Government of India constituted the SRC in 1953. The Commission’s mandate was to examine the feasibility of reorganisation of states on linguistic, cultural, and administrative grounds. The SRC’s key recommendations included:
- Linguistic Principle as Primary Basis: The SRC largely favoured the linguistic principle as the primary basis for reorganisation, believing it would foster a sense of unity and identity within states.
- Retention of Some Composite States: Recognizing the potential for disruption, the SRC recommended retaining some composite states (like Bombay, Madras, and Punjab) for a transitional period.
- Abolition of Princely States: The SRC also addressed the integration of princely states, advocating for their merger with neighbouring provinces.
- Criteria for Viability: The SRC laid down criteria for the viability of states, including population size, financial resources, and administrative capabilities.
Implementation & Subsequent Reorganisations (1956-1966)
The first major reorganisation took place in 1956 with the implementation of the SRC’s recommendations. Several new states were formed:
| Old State | New States Formed |
|---|---|
| Bombay | Maharashtra & Gujarat (separated in 1960) |
| Madras | Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh |
| Punjab | Punjab (Punjabi-speaking), Haryana (Hindi-speaking), and Himachal Pradesh |
| Andhra State | Andhra Pradesh (merged with Telangana in 1956, separated in 2014) |
Further reorganisations occurred in the 1960s, notably the separation of Gujarat from Maharashtra in 1960 and the creation of Nagaland in 1963. These changes reflected the continuing assertion of linguistic and cultural identities.
National Consolidation & Integration
The reorganisation of states significantly contributed to national consolidation and integration in several ways:
- Reduced Regional Discontent: Addressing the long-standing demands for linguistic states alleviated regional discontent and fostered a sense of belonging among linguistic communities.
- Strengthened Democratic Processes: Linguistic states facilitated more effective political participation and representation, strengthening democratic processes at the state level.
- Improved Administration: Administration became more efficient as governance could be conducted in the local language, improving communication and accessibility.
- National Unity: Despite initial concerns about fragmentation, the reorganisation ultimately strengthened national unity by accommodating diverse linguistic identities within a federal framework.
Challenges & Criticisms
However, the reorganisation was not without its challenges. The creation of linguistic states sometimes led to inter-state disputes over boundaries, resources, and linguistic minorities. The Telangana movement, culminating in the formation of a separate Telangana state in 2014, demonstrates the enduring complexities of linguistic and regional identities. Furthermore, the SRC’s focus on language sometimes overlooked other important factors like administrative convenience and economic viability.
Conclusion
The reorganisation of states on a linguistic basis was a bold and transformative step in post-independence India. While not without its complexities and challenges, it undeniably played a crucial role in national consolidation and integration. By acknowledging and accommodating the diverse linguistic identities within the country, the reorganisation fostered a sense of belonging, strengthened democratic processes, and improved administrative efficiency. The ongoing debates surrounding regional identities and statehood demonstrate that the process of nation-building is continuous, but the linguistic reorganisation remains a foundational achievement in India’s journey towards unity and progress.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.