The Hyderabad State in independent India underwent significant changes following the country's independence from British rule in 1947 and its subsequent integration into the Indian Union in 1948. The transition from a princely state to a part of India involved various political, social, and economic transformations. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of Hyderabad State in independent India:

Historical Context

  1. Princely State:

    • Before independence, Hyderabad was one of the largest and most prosperous princely states in India, ruled by the Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Pasha.
    • The Nizam sought to maintain his autonomy after India gained independence on August 15, 1947, preferring to remain independent rather than accede to India.

  2. Post-Independence Tensions:

    • The reluctance of the Nizam to join the Indian Union led to escalating tensions, particularly with the rise of communal violence and the activities of the Razakars, a paramilitary group that sought to establish an independent Muslim state.

Merger into the Indian Union

  1. Operation Polo:

    • On September 13, 1948, the Indian government launched Operation Polo, a military action to integrate Hyderabad into India.
    • The operation lasted five days, culminating in the surrender of the Nizam on September 17, 1948, and the formal accession of Hyderabad to the Indian Union.

  2. Post-Merger Administration:

    • Following the merger, Hyderabad was placed under direct rule by the Indian government until a civilian administration could be established.
    • The administration focused on restoring order, addressing local grievances, and integrating the region into the broader framework of the Indian Union.

Political Changes

  1. Establishment of a New Government:

    • In 1950, the military administration transitioned to a civilian government led by M. Vellodi, who became the first Chief Minister of Hyderabad after the merger.
    • The new government focused on addressing local issues, implementing reforms, and ensuring representation for the Mulki population.

  2. Implementation of the Mulki Rules:

    • The Vellodi government enforced the Mulki Rules, reserving jobs for local residents in government employment to address grievances related to representation.
    • These rules aimed to protect the interests of the Mulki population against the influx of Non-Mulkis (outsiders) in administrative positions.

  3. Political Movements:

    • The period saw the rise of various political movements, including the Telangana movement, which advocated for local rights, representation, and ultimately the formation of a separate state.
    • The movement gained momentum due to the perceived neglect of local interests and the need for social justice.

Social and Economic Changes

  1. Social Reforms:

    • The new administration implemented various social reforms to address issues of caste, education, and economic inequality.
    • Efforts were made to improve literacy rates, especially among marginalized communities, and enhance access to education.

  2. Economic Development:

    • The government focused on economic development initiatives, promoting agriculture, irrigation, and industrialization to stimulate growth and create employment opportunities.
    • Investment in infrastructure and public services aimed to improve the overall standard of living in the region.

  3. Land Reforms:

    • The administration initiated land reform policies to address issues of land ownership and tenancy, redistributing land to the landless and marginalized communities.
    • These reforms aimed to reduce feudal practices and promote agricultural productivity.

Integration into Andhra Pradesh

  1. Formation of Andhra Pradesh:

    • In 1956, Hyderabad State was merged with the newly formed Andhra Pradesh, based on linguistic lines, bringing together Telugu-speaking regions.
    • This merger was significant in shaping the political landscape of the region and addressing demands for representation and identity.

  2. Continuing Challenges:

    • The merger created new challenges, including cultural and linguistic integration, as well as the distribution of resources and opportunities.
    • The discontent among certain communities, particularly in Telangana, eventually led to renewed demands for statehood and autonomy, culminating in the formation of Telangana as a separate state in 2014.

Conclusion

The period following the integration of Hyderabad State into independent India was marked by significant political, social, and economic changes. The transition from princely rule to integration into the Indian Union involved addressing local grievances, implementing reforms, and managing the complexities of regional identity. Understanding the history of Hyderabad State in independent India is crucial for comprehending the contemporary socio-political dynamics of Telangana and its ongoing quest for rights and representation.