Azharuddin Joins Telangana Cabinet; BJP Alleges Poll Code Breach
Former cricketer’s induction gives Congress its first Muslim minister; Opposition sees political motive ahead of bypoll.
- Mohammad Azharuddin sworn in as Telangana minister by Governor Jishnu Dev Verma.
- Congress says move fulfills commitment to minority representation.
- BJP accuses ruling party of violating Model Code of Conduct before Jubilee Hills bypoll.
- Azharuddin yet to become MLC; must secure position within six months to retain post.
GG News Bureau
Hyderabad, 31st Oct: Former Indian cricket captain and senior Congress leader Mohammad Azharuddin was sworn in as a minister in the Telangana cabinet on Thursday. Governor Jishnu Dev Verma administered the oath at Raj Bhavan, marking the Congress government’s first Muslim representation in the cabinet.
The move comes ahead of the November 11 bypoll in Jubilee Hills, where nearly 30% of the electorate is Muslim. The Opposition BJP has accused the Congress of misusing official power to influence voters and violating the Model Code of Conduct.
Telangana Congress chief Mahesh Goud defended the induction, saying it fulfills the party’s commitment to social justice and minority inclusion. “Even in undivided Andhra Pradesh, governments always included a minority face. We are restoring balance,” he said.
Azharuddin, not yet a legislator, has been nominated to the legislative council under the Governor’s quota. The Governor’s approval is pending, and Azharuddin must become an MLC within six months to continue as a minister.
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