Hyderabad No Longer Andhra Pradesh's Capital: What You Need to Know

A new chapter is unfolding in Andhra Pradesh, and it's got to do with its capital city. As of June 2nd, 2024, Hyderabad, the vibrant city we all know, is no longer the official capital of Andhra Pradesh. Don't worry, Hyderabad isn't going anywhere! It's just time for Andhra Pradesh to have its own dedicated capital space.

Hyderabad No Longer Andhra Pradesh's Capital

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Why the Change?

Hyderabad is losing its status as the capital of Andhra Pradesh due to the Section 5(1) of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. This act mandated that Hyderabad would serve as the joint capital of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for a period not exceeding 10 years. According to Section 5(2) of the Act, after this period, Hyderabad will be the only capital of Telangana, and a new capital will be set up for Andhra Pradesh. The key reasons behind this decision are:

1. Bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh: The act was enacted to implement the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh into two separate states, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. This was done to address the long-standing demand for a separate Telangana state, which had been a major political issue in the region.

2. Establishment of a New Capital for Andhra Pradesh: The act envisioned the establishment of a new capital for Andhra Pradesh, which has not yet been fully implemented. The state has been struggling to decide on a permanent capital, with Amaravati and Visakhapatnam being the main contenders. This uncertainty has led to the transition period, where Hyderabad will cease to be the joint capital.

3. Time Limit for Joint Capital Status: The act specified that Hyderabad would serve as the joint capital for a limited period of 10 years. This deadline has now been reached, and Hyderabad will no longer be the joint capital of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh from June 2, 2024.

4. Security Concerns and Governance: The act also included provisions for the governor to have special powers in the common capital area, particularly regarding security and law and order. However, these powers will cease to exist once Hyderabad is no longer the joint capital.

"On and from the appointed day (June 2), Hyderabad in the existing State of Andhra Pradesh, shall be the common capital of the State of Telangana and the State of Andhra Pradesh for such period not exceeding ten years," said the AP Reorganisation Act.

"After expiry of the period referred to in sub-section (1), Hyderabad shall be the capital of the State of Telangana and there shall be a new capital for the State of Andhra Pradesh," it added.

So, which lucky city gets to be the new capital of Andhra Pradesh? That's where things get interesting! There's no single answer yet, but the Chief Minister has proposed a fascinating three-city solution. Here's how it could work:

1) Visakhapatnam, a beautiful coastal city with a bustling port, could become the administrative capital. This means it would be the center for running the state's day-to-day affairs – picture fancy offices and important decision-making happening here!

2) Amaravati, a planned city with grand architectural ambitions, might take the title of legislative capital. Imagine it as the heart of Andhra Pradesh's law-making body, kind of like a central hub for debates and discussions that shape the state's laws.

3) Kurnool, a historic city steeped in cultural heritage, could become the judicial capital. This would make it the home of Andhra Pradesh's courts, the place where justice prevails!

It's important to remember that this is just a proposal, and the final decision might involve some tweaks. But no matter what, Andhra Pradesh is on the cusp of something exciting – a brand new capital city (or maybe even three!). We'll definitely keep you posted on any updates, so stay tuned!