Azharuddin's Historic Induction: Congress Woos Muslim Voters in Telangana

Mohammad Azharuddin, a Congress leader and former Indian cricket captain, was appointed as a minister in Telangana's cabinet on Friday. Governor Jishnu Dev Verma conducted the swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhavan, with Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and other prominent leaders in attendance.

With Azharuddin's inclusion, the cabinet's total strength increases to 16, with two positions still open under the state's law allowing up to 18 ministers. His appointment is a calculated move by the Congress to secure support in the Jubilee Hills bypoll, involving a significant Muslim voter demographic, crucial for the party.

Azharuddin was recently nominated as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) by the Telangana government, yet awaits final approval from Governor Varma. This strategic shift in the cabinet underscores Congress's approach to minority representation in anticipation of upcoming elections in Bihar, known for its Muslim electorate.