The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's stand on Telangana was pivotal in the movement for statehood during the late 2000s and early 2010s. Here are the key points regarding the UPA’s position:

1. Initial Indecision

  • 2004 Elections: The UPA, led by the Indian National Congress, initially adopted a cautious approach toward the demand for Telangana, partly due to the potential backlash from the residual Andhra Pradesh.

2. Announcement of Intent (2009)

  • December 2009 Announcement: In response to persistent agitations and pressure from regional parties, the UPA government announced its intention to form a separate Telangana state. This marked a significant shift in the government's stance and was met with widespread celebrations in Telangana.

3. Withdrawal of the Announcement

  • Political Backlash: Following the announcement, strong opposition emerged from various groups in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in the coastal regions. This led to a political crisis, prompting the government to retract its earlier announcement, which caused further unrest and protests in Telangana.

4. Formation of the Group of Ministers (GoM)

  • 2013 Developments: The UPA government formed a GoM to assess the situation and address the complexities surrounding the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. This committee was tasked with evaluating the demands and recommending a course of action.

5. Final Decision to Support Bifurcation

  • Cabinet Approval: On October 3, 2013, the UPA Cabinet approved the draft bill for bifurcation, signaling a definitive shift in its stance toward the formation of Telangana. This approval was a response to ongoing protests and the political necessity to address the issue.

6. Introduction of the Telangana Bill

  • Parliamentary Process: The Telangana Bill was introduced in Parliament in December 2013, and the UPA government actively supported its passage, reflecting a commitment to fulfilling the long-standing demand for statehood.

7. Outcome and Legacy

  • Statehood Granted: Telangana was officially formed on June 2, 2014, marking the culmination of the UPA government's efforts to address the Telangana issue. This move was seen as a significant political achievement, despite the complexities and controversies involved.

Conclusion

The UPA government's stance on Telangana evolved from initial caution to active support for the formation of a separate state. This shift was influenced by political pressures, public agitation, and the need to address long-standing grievances, ultimately leading to the successful establishment of Telangana as a separate state in 2014.