The Mulki Rules were established in the Hyderabad State to protect the rights of the local population (Mulki) by reserving government jobs and opportunities for them, ensuring that the administration reflected the demographics of the region. However, violations of these rules occurred, particularly during the post-independence period, leading to significant socio-political implications. Here’s an overview of the violation of the Mulki Rules and its consequences:

Overview of the Mulki Rules

  1. Purpose of the Mulki Rules:

    • The Mulki Rules were instituted in 1919 under the Farman of the Nizam to safeguard local interests and ensure that residents of Hyderabad were prioritized in government employment.
    • The rules defined "Mulki" residents as those who had lived in Hyderabad for a specified duration, thereby providing them job security and opportunities in the state administration.

  2. Implementation:

    • The rules were designed to protect local jobs from being filled by non-residents (Non-Mulkis) who had migrated to Hyderabad, particularly during times of economic opportunity and political change.
    • Compliance with the Mulki Rules was meant to foster a sense of local identity and community among the residents.

Violations of the Mulki Rules

  1. Post-Independence Context:

    • Following the merger of Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in 1948, there were significant political changes that altered the enforcement of the Mulki Rules.
    • The influx of Non-Mulkis, particularly from other parts of India, into administrative positions began to undermine the original intent of the Mulki Rules.

  2. Government Appointments:

    • Instances were reported where government positions were filled by Non-Mulkis, disregarding the Mulki Rules, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the local population.
    • The implementation of policies favoring outsiders for administrative roles contributed to the perception that the local population was being sidelined.

  3. Political Maneuvering:

    • Political changes and the influence of various parties led to the erosion of the Mulki Rules, as new administrations sought to consolidate power and support from Non-Mulkis.
    • Compromises made by political leaders resulted in the dilution of protections intended for Mulki individuals, undermining the original objectives of the rules.

Implications of Violating the Mulki Rules

  1. Social Unrest:

    • Violations of the Mulki Rules led to growing discontent among the local population, resulting in protests and demands for the restoration of their rights and job reservations.
    • This discontent contributed to communal tensions and unrest, as many felt that their livelihoods and identities were being threatened.

  2. Rise of Regional Movements:

    • The dissatisfaction with the erosion of the Mulki Rules fueled regional movements, particularly the Telangana movement, which sought to address grievances related to local rights and representation.
    • Activists and local leaders began to organize protests and campaigns advocating for the protection of Mulki interests and the enforcement of job reservations.

  3. Political Polarization:

    • The violation of the Mulki Rules contributed to political polarization in the region, with factions emerging to either support the status quo or advocate for the rights of the Mulki population.
    • This polarization hindered efforts at fostering unity and collaboration among different communities, complicating governance and social harmony.

  4. Legislative Changes:

    • The growing pressure from the local population led to legislative changes aimed at reinstating the Mulki Rules and protecting local employment rights.
    • The government faced demands to create policies that would prioritize the hiring of Mulki residents, reflecting the need for a more equitable approach to employment.

  5. Long-term Impact on Telangana:

    • The violations of the Mulki Rules and the subsequent unrest had a lasting impact on the political landscape of Telangana, shaping future demands for statehood and regional autonomy.
    • The events of this period laid the foundation for subsequent movements advocating for Telangana's distinct identity and rights within the Indian Union.

Conclusion

The violation of the Mulki Rules had profound implications for the socio-political landscape of Hyderabad and later Telangana. It led to social unrest, the rise of regional movements, political polarization, and demands for legislative changes to protect local interests. Understanding these violations and their consequences is essential for comprehending the historical trajectory of Telangana's political and social dynamics and the ongoing struggles for rights and representation in the region.