States Reorganisation Commission

The States Reorganisation Commission was appointed by the Government of India in 1953 to examine how the boundaries of Indian states should be reorganised. Its task was to recommend a balanced scheme that accommodated linguistic and cultural identities while protecting national unity, administrative efficiency and economic viability.

Background and composition

Demands for linguistic states intensified after independence, particularly following the creation of Andhra State in 1953. The Commission was chaired by Fazl Ali, with H. N. Kunzru and K. M. Panikkar as members.

Mandate and guiding considerations

The Commission was asked to examine the reorganisation of the states objectively and recommend principles, broad lines and specific proposals that would promote the welfare of each constituent unit and of the nation as a whole.

• It had to consider linguistic and cultural homogeneity, but language was not to be the sole criterion.
• It was required to safeguard the unity and security of India while assessing regional aspirations.
• It had to examine administrative convenience and the financial and economic viability of the proposed units.
• It was also to consider the requirements of national development and the effective implementation of development plans.

Report and consequences

The Commission submitted its report in 1955. Its recommendations, accepted with modifications, informed the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 and the Seventh Constitutional Amendment, which reorganised India into 14 states and 6 Union territories.