Will Azharuddin Join the Telangana Cabinet?
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Synopsis
In an anticipated political development, former cricket star Mohammed Azharuddin is likely to join the Telangana Cabinet. His induction is pivotal for Muslim representation in the government, especially after a series of electoral defeats for the Congress party's Muslim candidates. Will this move strengthen the party's ties with the community?
Key Takeaways
- Azharuddin's induction into the Cabinet signifies a push for Muslim representation.
- The Congress party is attempting to strengthen its ties with the community.
- Azharuddin has a significant political history, having served in various roles within the party.
- His swearing-in is expected on October 31.
- The political landscape in Telangana is evolving with this potential change.
Hyderabad, Oct 29 (NationPress) The former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin is on the verge of being inducted into the Telangana Cabinet.
Sources within the Congress party suggest that his swearing-in ceremony is anticipated on Friday, October 31.
This development follows his nomination as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) under the Governor's quota just two months ago.
The decision to nominate him as MLC initially surprised many, as Azharuddin had publicly declared his candidacy for the by-election in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency.
His response to the Cabinet's decision indicated that the party leadership had assured him of a ministerial role.
The former MP expressed that he felt 'deeply honoured and humbled' by this decision and, while thanking the leadership, reaffirmed his commitment to serve the state with 'integrity and dedication.'
Recently, the Congress party designated Naveen Yadav as its candidate for the upcoming by-election scheduled for November 11.
Azharuddin's induction into the Cabinet is significant as it will provide representation for the Muslim community, which has been underrepresented since the party came to power nearly two years ago.
Key Muslim candidates from the Congress, including Azharuddin, faced defeats in the 2023 Assembly elections.
After losing in Jubilee Hills, he was eager to return to politics following the vacancy created by the passing of the sitting MLA, Maganti Gopinath, of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).
However, the Congress leadership convinced him to accept the MLC nomination with a promise of a Cabinet position.
The 62-year-old's induction is expected to strengthen the Congress party's outreach to the Muslim electorate, which makes up approximately 30% of the Jubilee Hills constituency.
During the election campaigns, the BRS criticized the Congress for 'deceiving' the Muslim community and 'betraying' Azharuddin.
The Cabinet was initially formed on December 7, 2023, with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and 11 ministers taking their oaths.
The Cabinet was expanded on June 8, 2025, with the addition of three ministers, leaving three posts vacant.
Currently, the State Cabinet can accommodate a maximum of 18 ministers, including the Chief Minister.
Azharuddin was elected to the Lok Sabha from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh in 2009 after joining the Congress. He lost in a subsequent election in Rajasthan's Ton-Sawai Madhopur in 2014.
In 2018, he became the Working President of the Telangana Congress, campaigning for the party in that year's Assembly elections, but he wasn't fielded in either the Assembly or Lok Sabha polls.
Currently, Azharuddin serves as the working president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) and was appointed to the Political Affairs Committee of the TPCC in May this year.
Point of View
Azharuddin's anticipated induction into the Telangana Cabinet is a strategic move by the Congress party to address concerns over community representation. As the political landscape evolves, this decision could enhance the party's rapport with the Muslim electorate, which has felt sidelined in recent years. It remains to be seen how this will impact upcoming elections.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Azharuddin joining the Cabinet?
Azharuddin's induction is significant as it provides representation for the Muslim community, which has been underrepresented in the Telangana Cabinet since the party came to power.
When will Azharuddin be sworn in?
He is expected to be sworn in as a minister on Friday, October 31.
What role did Azharuddin play in the Congress party?
Azharuddin has served as the Working President of the Telangana Congress and has campaigned for the party in previous elections.
How has the BRS viewed Azharuddin's political journey?
The BRS has criticized the Congress for allegedly deceiving the Muslim community and betraying Azharuddin after his electoral defeats.
What is the current composition of the Telangana Cabinet?
The Telangana Cabinet can have a maximum of 18 ministers, including the Chief Minister, and has seen expansions and vacancies recently.
