Azharuddin Joins Telangana Cabinet Amid Political Buzz

Former Cricket Captain Takes Oath of Office

Congress leader and former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin officially joined the Telangana cabinet on Friday. The oath-taking ceremony was held at Raj Bhavan, where Governor Jishnu Dev Verma administered the oath of office and secrecy. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, along with senior political leaders, was present to witness the historic moment.

Cabinet Expansion and Political Significance

With Azharuddin’s induction, the Telangana cabinet now comprises 16 ministers, leaving room for two additional appointments. The state assembly allows for a maximum of 18 ministers. Political analysts view Azharuddin’s entry as a strategic move by the Congress, particularly with the upcoming Jubilee Hills bypoll on the horizon. The constituency, home to over one lakh Muslim voters, is expected to play a pivotal role in the electoral outcome.

Background of the Jubilee Hills Bypoll

The bypoll became necessary following the passing of BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath in June due to a heart attack. The upcoming election has intensified political maneuvering, with parties seeking to consolidate their influence among key voter segments.

Azharuddin Addresses Speculations

Speaking after the oath ceremony, Azharuddin dismissed suggestions that his ministerial appointment was tied to the Jubilee Hills by-election. “I am happy. I thank my party’s high command, the public, and my supporters. This has nothing to do with the Jubilee by-election. These are two separate matters and should not be linked,” he stated.

He added, “Whatever responsibility I am given, I will work honestly for the upliftment of the oppressed people. G. Kishan Reddy can say anything. I do not need a certificate of patriotism from anyone.”

BJP Criticism and Allegations of Political Appeasement

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sharply criticized Azharuddin’s induction, framing it as an attempt at “political appeasement” targeting minority voters ahead of the bypoll. The party argued that the move prioritizes electoral advantage over merit-based governance. BJP leaders further alleged that the timing of the cabinet expansion is closely linked to the bypoll campaign, designed to strengthen Congress’s standing among Muslim voters in Jubilee Hills.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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