Model Answer

State reorganisation in India has been a dynamic and continuing process since Independence. Article 3 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to form new states, alter boundaries, or change names of existing states. While the initial phase of reorganisation was guided primarily by linguistic identity, contemporary demands increasingly arise from developmental imbalances, governance challenges, and regional aspirations. In this context, the proposal for a permanent and objective framework for state reorganisation seeks to replace ad-hoc political decisions with a systematic, evidence-based approach.

Historical Basis: Linguistic Reorganisation

The first major exercise in state reorganisation followed the recommendations of the States Reorganisation Commission (SRC), 1953. The Commission reorganised states largely on linguistic lines, culminating in the States Reorganisation Act, 1956.

Rationale behind linguistic principle:

• To accommodate India’s immense cultural and linguistic diversity. -To prevent linguistic conflicts and strengthen national unity.
• To make administration accessible by conducting governance in the people’s language.

The linguistic model successfully translated diverse identities into manageable political units, thereby consolidating democracy and federalism. However, language was not treated as the sole criterion; administrative convenience and economic viability were also considered.

Shift in Rationale: Developmental and Administrative Concerns

In recent decades, the basis for state formation has evolved beyond linguistic identity.

1. Developmental Imbalances

Several demands for new states—such as Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana—were rooted in perceived regional neglect and uneven development.

Regions rich in resources often felt deprived of equitable benefits.

Peripheral areas complained of inadequate infrastructure and public services.

Statehood was viewed as a mechanism to accelerate local development and ensure targeted policy interventions.

2. Administrative Efficiency

Large states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar have populations exceeding those of many European countries.

Governance in such large units can become distant and bureaucratically cumbersome.

Smaller states are often argued to be more responsive and administratively manageable.

The demand for smaller states is thus seen as a call for more accountable and decentralised governance.

3. Public Sentiment and Identity

Beyond language, identity politics now includes regional pride, historical distinctiveness, and cultural autonomy. While these sentiments cannot be ignored in a democracy, unstructured accommodation may encourage fragmentation.

Need for a Permanent and Objective Framework

The absence of a consistent policy has meant that state formation often appears politically driven. A permanent framework could address several concerns:

1. Avoiding Ad-hocism

The creation of Telangana in 2014, though constitutionally valid, was widely perceived as politically negotiated rather than institutionally studied. A permanent mechanism—such as a standing commission—could provide systematic evaluation.

2. Evidence-Based Criteria

A framework should assess:

Economic viability (revenue base, fiscal sustainability)

Administrative feasibility (infrastructure, governance capacity)

Social cohesion and national unity

Impact on inter-state relations

Such criteria would ensure that emotional or electoral pressures do not overshadow long-term sustainability.

3. Harmonising Federalism and Unity

Frequent or arbitrary state creation could risk excessive regionalism. Conversely, ignoring legitimate demands can breed alienation. A transparent and rule-based process would strike a balance between regional aspirations and national integration.

4. Strengthening Cooperative Federalism

A pre-defined framework could involve consultations with:

Concerned state legislatures

Inter-State Council

NITI Aayog and Finance Commission inputs

This would institutionalise dialogue and minimise conflict.

State reorganisation in India has evolved from a linguistic project of nation-building to a developmental instrument of governance reform. While the linguistic principle stabilised early federalism, contemporary realities demand a more nuanced, evidence-based approach. A permanent and objective framework can transform state formation from a reactive political exercise into a strategic governance tool, harmonising regional aspirations with the overarching goals of national unity and efficient administration.