Judgments on Mulki Rules in Telangana Movement – Detailed Notes

The Mulki Rules were a crucial aspect of employment and educational opportunities in the erstwhile Hyderabad State and later in Telangana. These rules became the basis for several political agitations and were central to the Telangana Movement during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Court judgments on Mulki Rules shaped the course of Telangana politics and played an important role in defining regional rights.

Introduction

After the merger of Hyderabad State with India in 1948, questions regarding employment opportunities for locals became prominent. The Mulki Rules, which dated back to the Nizam’s era (1919), gave preference to locals in government jobs and admissions to educational institutions. However, with the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956, the implementation of these rules became highly contentious, resulting in widespread discontent among people of Telangana. Multiple court cases and judgments were delivered regarding their validity and application.

Background of Mulki Rules

• Introduced by Nizam’s Government in 1919 to safeguard jobs for locals of Hyderabad State.
• A person was considered a "Mulki" if he had lived in Hyderabad State for 15 years and taken an oath of allegiance to the Nizam.
• These rules were meant to protect locals from domination by people from other regions.
• Post-1956 reorganization, Andhra employees started competing for jobs in Telangana, leading to friction.

Legal Challenges to Mulki Rules

When the state of Andhra Pradesh was created in 1956 by merging Telangana with Andhra, the Gentlemen’s Agreement promised to continue the Mulki Rules. However, their implementation was frequently challenged, resulting in litigation.

1. The A.V.S. Narasimha Rao Case (1969)

The landmark case came before the Supreme Court of India in 1969. The issue was whether the Mulki Rules continued to remain valid after the formation of Andhra Pradesh. The Court upheld the validity of Mulki Rules, declaring them constitutional and binding, as they were protected under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 and the Gentlemen’s Agreement.

2. Supreme Court Judgment – October 3, 1972

The Supreme Court delivered a crucial judgment on October 3, 1972, reiterating that Mulki Rules were valid and enforceable in the Telangana region. This judgment gave a legal victory to Telangana locals but triggered massive opposition in Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions. This ultimately led to the Jai Andhra Movement (1972), demanding a separate Andhra State.

3. Other Related Judgments

• Several petitions were filed in High Courts challenging the application of Mulki Rules in job recruitments.
• The courts consistently held that Telangana residents had special rights guaranteed under the Mulki Rules.
• Later, the political instability arising out of conflicting regional demands forced the central government to intervene.

Impact of Judgments on Telangana Movement

1. Strengthened Telangana Identity: The legal upholding of Mulki Rules gave Telangana people confidence in their legitimate rights over jobs and education.
2. Triggered Jai Andhra Movement: Supreme Court’s 1972 judgment caused unrest in Andhra and Rayalaseema, where people felt discriminated against.
3. Led to Presidential Order 1975: To resolve disputes, the central government issued the Presidential Order under Article 371D in 1975, introducing zonal system of employment and education.
4. Political Polarization: These judgments deepened the political divide between Telangana and Andhra leaders, eventually laying the foundation for the demand for a separate Telangana State.

Timeline of Events Related to Mulki Judgments

• 1919 – Mulki Rules introduced by Nizam of Hyderabad.
• 1956 – Gentlemen’s Agreement ensured continuation of Mulki Rules in Telangana after Andhra Pradesh formation.
• 1969 – A.V.S. Narasimha Rao case filed in Supreme Court.
• 1969 – Telangana Agitation intensified demanding implementation of Mulki Rules.
• October 3, 1972 – Supreme Court upheld validity of Mulki Rules.
• 1972 – Jai Andhra Movement launched in response.
• 1975 – Presidential Order issued under Article 371D, replacing Mulki Rules with zonal system.

Conclusion

The judgments on Mulki Rules were turning points in the Telangana Movement. While they legally safeguarded Telangana’s rights, they also created resentment in Andhra regions, leading to agitations such as the Jai Andhra Movement. The political unrest forced the central government to bring the Presidential Order of 1975 under Article 371D. This shows that the judiciary played a crucial role in shaping the history of Telangana and influencing policies that affected millions of people. Understanding these judgments is vital for aspirants preparing for TSPSC, Group Exams, and Telangana Police Constable.