Question

Discuss the movement in Andhra for the formation of the state on a linguistic basis.

Answer 1

The Andhra movement aimed to create a separate state for Telugu-speaking people, who were part of the Madras Presidency. Telugu speakers felt discriminated against in favour of Tamil speakers, especially in education and employment. The demand grew stronger after independence. A turning point was the fast-unto-death by Potti Sriramulu in 1952, demanding a separate Andhra State. His death led to widespread protests and demonstrations across the Telugu regions. The government, responding to public pressure, agreed to the demand. In 1953, Andhra State was carved out of the Madras State, marking a major success for the linguistic reorganization movement in India.