Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Oct 30: In a significant political development, former Indian cricket captain and senior Congress leader Mohammad Azharuddin is all set to take oath as a minister in the Telangana Cabinet on Friday, marking his formal induction into Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s government.
According to senior Congress sources, the decision — which has been under discussion for several weeks — comes as part of the party’s effort to strengthen minority representation in the cabinet and reach out to Muslim voters ahead of the crucial Jubilee Hills by-election on November 11.
Azharuddin, 62, currently serves as the Working President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC). Earlier this month, he was nominated to the Legislative Council (MLC) under the Governor’s quota, clearing the path for his ministerial berth.
Since coming to power in December 2023, the Revanth Reddy-led Congress government has faced criticism from opposition parties and minority leaders over the lack of a Muslim minister in the cabinet. Party insiders believe Azharuddin’s induction will help bridge that gap and reinforce the Congress’s commitment to inclusive governance.
A senior minister told Daijiworld Media Network that the move is “both a representation and a strategy.” “Azharuddin enjoys immense goodwill across communities — not just as a sports icon but also as a leader who connects with youth and minorities,” the minister said.
A former Member of Parliament from Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh), Azharuddin transitioned into active politics after his illustrious cricketing career, during which he captained India in 99 Tests and 334 ODIs. Known for his elegant batting and calm leadership, he continues to be one of Indian cricket’s most respected figures.
With his elevation to the Telangana Cabinet, Azharuddin is expected to play a key role in the Congress’s outreach to urban voters, especially in Hyderabad, where the party aims to regain lost ground.
Azharuddin’s induction ceremony is expected to take place at Raj Bhavan on Friday, in the presence of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and senior Congress leaders.