Part of: Andhra Pradesh Gk set 11

The leader who went on hunger strike for the Andhra Pradesh to protect the interest of Telugu speakers is

Category: Andhra Pradesh Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the Andhra Pradesh movement and the leaders involved.

Correct Answer: B) Potti Sriramulu.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question pertains to the historical context of the Andhra Pradesh movement and the leaders involved in the struggle for the creation of a separate Telugu-speaking state. Potti Sriramulu, a prominent Indian freedom fighter and activist, undertook a hunger strike in 1952 to demand the creation of a separate Telugu-speaking state. His sacrifice was a significant event in the Indian independence movement and the formation of linguistic states.

During the early years of independent India, there was a strong demand for the creation of states based on linguistic lines. The Telugu-speaking people of the Madras Presidency, which included the coastal and Rayalaseema regions, were particularly vocal about their desire for a separate state. Potti Sriramulu, a Gandhian and a follower of non-violent resistance, decided to undertake a hunger strike to draw attention to this cause. His hunger strike lasted for 58 days and ended tragically with his death on December 15, 1952.

The death of Potti Sriramulu created a wave of public sympathy and unrest, which compelled the Indian government to reconsider its stance on the creation of a separate Telugu-speaking state. In response to the public pressure and the political situation, the government of India decided to form Andhra Pradesh, the first linguistic state in India, on October 1, 1953. This event marked a significant milestone in the history of India and set a precedent for the formation of other linguistic states in the country.

It is important to note that Potti Sriramulu's sacrifice was not just about the creation of a separate state but also about the recognition of linguistic and cultural identities within the Indian nation. His actions highlighted the importance of addressing regional aspirations and the need for a more inclusive approach to governance. The formation of Andhra Pradesh was a testament to the power of non-violent resistance and the ability of individuals to bring about significant political change.

Understanding the historical context of the Andhra Pradesh movement and the role of Potti Sriramulu is crucial for comprehending the complexities of Indian politics and the formation of linguistic states. This event is often studied in the context of Indian history and political science, particularly in the preparation for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Chitta Ranjan Das was a prominent Indian nationalist leader, but he was not associated with the Andhra Pradesh movement or the hunger strike for Telugu speakers. He was more involved in the Bengal region.
  • Option B: Potti Sriramulu is the correct answer. He undertook a hunger strike in 1952 to demand the creation of a separate Telugu-speaking state, which eventually led to the formation of Andhra Pradesh. His sacrifice was a significant event in the Indian independence movement and the formation of linguistic states.
  • Option C: Krishna Menon was a prominent Indian politician and diplomat, but he was not associated with the Andhra Pradesh movement or the hunger strike for Telugu speakers. He was more involved in national-level politics and defense.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because Potti Sriramulu is the correct answer. He is well-known for his hunger strike that led to the formation of Andhra Pradesh.

Mnemonic: Remember "PS" for Potti Sriramulu and his significant role in the Andhra Pradesh movement.

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