The Telangana movement from 1999 to 2014 was marked by various forms of protest and significant events that underscored the demand for a separate state. Here’s a detailed overview:

Forms of Protest

  1. Rallies and Marches

    • Large-scale rallies were organized across the region to mobilize public support. These events often attracted thousands of participants, showcasing the strength of the movement.

  2. Hunger Strikes

    • Activists, including prominent leaders like K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), undertook hunger strikes to draw attention to the demand for statehood. These acts of personal sacrifice were aimed at pressuring the government.

  3. General Strikes (Bandhs)

    • Widespread general strikes were called, impacting various sectors such as transportation, education, and business. These strikes aimed to disrupt normal life and highlight the urgency of the demand.

  4. Student Protests

    • Student organizations played a significant role, with college and university students staging protests, sit-ins, and demonstrations, often facing police repression. Their involvement brought energy and visibility to the movement.

  5. Cultural Programs

    • Music, dance, and theater were used as tools for protest. Folk songs and plays that highlighted the history and struggles of the Telangana people were performed at rallies and events.

  6. Social Media Campaigns

    • The rise of social media facilitated the spread of information and mobilization efforts. Activists used platforms like Facebook and Twitter to organize protests and share messages.

Major Events

  1. Formation of TRS (2001)

    • The Telangana Rashtra Samithi was founded by KCR, marking a formal political shift towards advocating for a separate state.

  2. 2004 Assembly Elections

    • The TRS formed an alliance with the Indian National Congress, gaining significant seats in the state assembly, which bolstered the movement.

  3. 2009 Announcement

    • The central government announced its intention to create a separate Telangana state in December 2009, leading to celebrations followed by discontent when the decision was retracted.

  4. Sakala Janula Samme (2011)

    • This was a major general strike involving various sectors, significantly impacting the functioning of the state and drawing national attention to the movement.

  5. KCR's Hunger Strike (2011)

    • KCR's indefinite hunger strike brought renewed focus to the movement, leading to increased public support and media coverage.

  6. Formation of the Group of Ministers (2013)

    • The Indian government formed a group of ministers to discuss the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, which was viewed with skepticism by activists.

  7. Cabinet Approval (July 2014)

    • The Union Cabinet approved the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, marking a crucial step towards the creation of Telangana.

  8. Formation of Telangana State (June 2, 2014)

    • Telangana officially became the 29th state of India, culminating years of struggle and activism. The event was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the region.

Conclusion

The Telangana movement from 1999 to 2014 was characterized by a diverse range of protests and significant events that reflected the aspirations and determination of the people. These efforts culminated in the formation of Telangana as a separate state, marking a historic achievement for the movement and its supporters.