The Sri Krishna Committee Report, submitted in December 2010, was a significant document addressing the demand for a separate Telangana state from Andhra Pradesh. Here’s an overview of the committee, its findings, and its recommendations:
Background of the Sri Krishna Committee
- Formation: The committee was formed by the Government of India in response to the increasing demand for a separate Telangana state, which had been a contentious political issue for several decades.
- Chairman: The committee was headed by Justice B.N. Srikrishna, a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India.
Objectives of the Committee
The primary objectives of the committee were to:
- Assess the viability of creating a separate Telangana state.
- Examine the socio-economic, political, and cultural aspects of the demand.
- Provide recommendations for the future course of action.
Key Findings of the Report
Historical Context: The committee acknowledged the historical background of the demand for a separate state, highlighting long-standing grievances regarding economic disparities, cultural identity, and political representation.
Economic Disparities: It noted significant disparities in development between the Telangana and Seemandhra regions, particularly in terms of education, employment, and infrastructure.
Public Sentiment: The committee found strong support for the creation of Telangana among various sections of society in the region, but it also noted opposition from some groups in the Seemandhra region.
Political Landscape: The committee observed that political dynamics, including party politics and electoral considerations, heavily influenced the demand for statehood.
Recommendations of the Sri Krishna Committee
The Sri Krishna Committee made several recommendations, divided into two main options:
Option 1: Formation of a Separate Telangana State
- Creation of Telangana: The committee recommended the creation of a separate Telangana state with a clear demarcation of borders.
- Development Initiatives: It suggested implementing special development packages for both Telangana and the residual Andhra Pradesh to ensure balanced growth.
- Resource Sharing: The committee recommended mechanisms for the equitable distribution of resources, particularly in terms of water, revenue, and employment opportunities.
Option 2: Retaining a Unified Andhra Pradesh
- Devolution of Powers: If Telangana was not formed, the committee recommended significant devolution of powers to local bodies in the Telangana region to address grievances and ensure better governance.
- Development Focus: It emphasized that the central government should focus on targeted development initiatives for the Telangana region within the unified state.
Other Key Recommendations
Political Consultations: The committee stressed the need for continuous political dialogue and consultations among all stakeholders to address regional aspirations.
Protection of Interests: It recommended safeguarding the interests of various communities and groups in both regions to ensure social harmony and stability.
Special Status: The committee suggested granting special status to the new state (if formed) for a specific period to facilitate its development.
Creation of a Separate Board: It recommended the establishment of a separate board for the development of the backward regions of both states, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
Impact of the Report
- Political Reactions: The report influenced political discussions and decisions regarding the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. It was a key document that shaped the legislative process leading to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014.
- Creation of Telangana: Ultimately, the report's recommendations supported the formation of Telangana as a separate state, which was officially created on June 2, 2014.
In summary, the Sri Krishna Committee Report played a crucial role in addressing the complex issues surrounding the demand for Telangana and provided a framework for the eventual bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. Its recommendations aimed at ensuring equitable development and addressing the historical grievances of the people of Telangana.
