Mohammed Azharuddin Set to Join Telangana Cabinet on October 31

In a major political development, Congress leader and ex-Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin is expected to take oath as a Telangana minister on October 31. Reliable sources confirm his induction into CM Revanth Reddy’s cabinet during the upcoming expansion.

From Cricket Legend to Congress Leader

Azharuddin, a celebrated figure in Indian cricket, entered politics in 2009 with the Congress party. Though he lost the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from Moradabad (UP), his political career gained momentum after he shifted focus to Telangana.

In 2019, he was appointed Telangana Congress president and played a crucial role in reviving the party’s prospects. His efforts during the 2023 Assembly elections, which ended BRS’s 10-year rule, earned him recognition as a key strategist.

Why Azharuddin’s Appointment is Significant

His induction is seen as a strategic move to boost Muslim representation in the government. Given his mass appeal among sports fans and minority communities, Azharuddin could help Congress strengthen its voter base ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

He may be assigned portfolios like:
✔ Sports & Youth Welfare (given his cricket background)
✔ Minority Affairs (to counter AIMIM’s influence)
✔ Tourism (leveraging his celebrity status)

Cabinet Expansion & Political Strategy

The Telangana cabinet currently has 10 ministers, with a maximum strength of 18. The Congress is likely to induct new faces to balance caste, region, and community representation.

Analysts believe Azharuddin’s inclusion could help Congress regain lost ground in Hyderabad, where AIMIM dominates.

Mixed Reactions from Opponents & Supporters

While Congress workers welcome the move, opposition parties question his administrative experience. BRS leader K.T. Rama Rao criticized it as “celebrity politics.”

However, supporters highlight his leadership skills and public connect, stating, “He won on the cricket field, and he’ll deliver in politics too.”

What to Expect Next?

If sworn in, Azharuddin will be part of a cabinet working on key poll promises like:
✅ Farm loan waivers
✅ Employment generation
✅ Expanded welfare schemes

His performance will be closely tracked, especially with the 2024 general elections approaching.

Stay updated with the latest developments on this story.