Four villages surrounding the historical temple town – Bhadrachalam become a dispute. It exemplifies a classic interstate border conflict, further complicated by religious sentiments, the ramifications of a pivotal irrigation project, and the ongoing repercussions of the state bifurcation. Telangana advocates for administrative coherence and the preservation of its cultural heritage, while Andhra Pradesh underscores the importance of these territories for the Polavaram project, a critical irrigation initiative. To resolve this dispute, extensive dialogue, political will from both state administrations, and possibly legislative action from the central government will be essential to find a solution that accommodates the interests of both states.

With the recent political shifts in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh — the Congress now governs Telangana, while a coalition of TDP, Jana Sena, and BJP runs Andhra Pradesh — the dynamics of this issue may evolve. Although the fundamental demands remain unchanged, the negotiation tactics and assertiveness might shift due to alliance politics and electoral considerations.

Background and Core Issue

The bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, facilitated by the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, resulted in the creation of Telangana. A significant component of this reorganization was the transfer of seven mandals from Khammam district of Telangana to Andhra Pradesh, designated as submergence areas for the Polavaram project. This transfer was enacted via an ordinance by the central government.

Among these mandals are villages such as Etapaka, Kannaigudem, Pichukalapadu, Purushothapatnam, and Gundala. While the town of Bhadrachalam and the renowned Sree Seetharamachandraswamy Temple remain in Telangana, some lands historically tied to the temple, notably in Purushothapatnam village, have now been integrated into Andhra Pradesh. These four, or five, depending on reports, villages are at the heart of the ongoing dispute. The crux of the issue is the geographical division between the Bhadrachalam temple and its significant lands and properties, which complicates their management and development. This separation raises administrative challenges for Telangana.

The situation was exacerbated by the severe flooding of the Godavari River in 2022, which led to significant inundation in Bhadrachalam town and the adjacent villages, now part of Andhra Pradesh. Telangana’s leaders argued that having these adjacent villages governed by a different state complicates flood relief efforts and infrastructure improvements, such as reinforcing bunds and retaining walls. They contend that this bureaucratic divide hinders a cohesive approach to flood management in the Bhadrachalam area. Additionally, lands owned by the Bhadrachalam temple in Purushothapatnam have reportedly faced encroachments. In 2022, the Andhra Pradesh High Court directed the government to address these encroachments, highlighting the administrative challenges and vulnerabilities stemming from the fragmented jurisdiction over temple assets.

Political Angle Of the Dispute

The Bhadrachalam villages controversy is fraught with political implications for both states. For Telangana's ruling parties, including the Congress and previously the BRS, advocating for the return of these villages resonates with voters, enabling them to address regional interests and public concerns regarding flood risks. This issue has the potential to spotlight perceived injustices stemming from the bifurcation process. For the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh (TDP-Jana Sena-BJP), retaining control over these areas is linked to the successful completion of the Polavaram project, which forms a cornerstone of their electoral promises and signifies development. Relinquishing these lands to Telangana may be perceived as a political defeat.

What does Telangana Demand?

Telangana has persistently called for the return of these villages, citing reasons of administrative efficiency, cultural and historical connections, and the necessity for effective flood management in the Bhadrachalam region. The state argues that integrating these villages and lands into Telangana is essential for efficient governance, disaster management, and the planned development of the temple town.

Bhadrachalam temple, a significant site of worship for many across both states, symbolizes Telangana's cultural heritage, making the separation of its lands seem particularly unjust. In the wake of the devastating floods on the Godavari, Telangana leaders such as BRS MLC Kavitha and current Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy have strongly pushed for the merger of these villages to enable comprehensive flood control measures. Recently, Telangana Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao reiterated this demand to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

What it the Stance of Andhra?

Andhra Pradesh has generally opposed the return of these villages. The issue is critical to the implementation of the ongoing national Polavaram lift irrigation project, which is vital for the state’s water supply and agricultural needs. The TDP-led coalition government argues that the initial transfer of these mandals was essential for the successful execution of the project. This merger, carried out through an amendment to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, has legal backing from the central government. Andhra administration asserts that the Polavaram project's flood management operations align with the Central Water Commission's directives and deny claims that these operations have led to increased flooding in Bhadrachalam.

Telangana Minister Meets Amit Shah

BJP-led central government finds itself in a precarious position, having facilitated the original merger. Any endeavour to reverse this decision would necessitate amending the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, potentially triggering a myriad of demands from both states and jeopardizing the Polavaram project. Although the central government often serves as a mediator in interstate disputes, substantial legislative measures would be required for any boundary changes. A recent meeting between Telangana Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao and Union Home Minister Amit Shah signifies Telangana's intent to engage the central government on this contentious issue.