The formation of Andhra State on October 1, 1953, with Kurnool as its capital, marked a significant milestone in the reorganization of Indian states based on linguistic identity. However, the process leading to this decision was shaped by several historical agreements, committee reports, and political debates. The demand for Telangana as a separate state also emerged during this period due to regional concerns and disparities.
Formation of Andhra State and Early Efforts
The demand for a separate Andhra state had been voiced for decades. The Andhra State Congress, formed in 1918 under the leadership of Nyapathi Subbarao (President) and Konda Venkatappayya (Secretary), played a key role in mobilizing support for the cause. The Sreebagh Pact of 1937, an agreement between Rayalaseema and Andhra leaders, attempted to resolve internal disputes within the Telugu-speaking regions regarding state capital selection and resource allocation. The pact was signed at Kashinathuni Nageshwar Rao’s residence, “Sreebagh” in Madras.
Committees on State Reorganization
S.K. Dhar Commission (1948)
In June 1948, the Indian Constitutional Council appointed the S.K. Dhar Commission to assess the feasibility of forming states based on linguistic identity. The commission, comprising members Jagat Narain Lal and Panna Lal, submitted its report in December 1948. It opposed linguistic states, arguing that state formation should be guided by administrative efficiency rather than language.
J.V.P. Committee (1948)
In response to dissatisfaction with the Dhar Commission’s recommendations, the Indian National Congress convened the J.V.P. Committee in December 1948, consisting of Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, and Pattabhi Sitaramayya. The committee reviewed the Dhar Commission’s findings and ultimately recommended delaying the creation of linguistic states. However, it supported the formation of an Andhra state on linguistic grounds, marking the first recognition of language-based statehood in India.
