Mohammad Azharuddin Sworn In as Minister in Telangana Cabinet

Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin has been sworn in as a minister in the Telangana cabinet, becoming the first member from the minority community in Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s council of ministers. The oath ceremony, held at Raj Bhavan, was administered by Governor Jishnu Dev Verma in the presence of top Congress leaders. With his induction, the cabinet strength has risen to 16, leaving room for two more ministers under the constitutional cap of 18.

Political Significance of Azharuddin’s Appointment

Azharuddin’s inclusion carries major political weight ahead of the Jubilee Hills by-election, which he is set to contest. The seat fell vacant after the death of BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath earlier this year. With a substantial Muslim voter base exceeding one lakh, the Congress hopes that Azharuddin’s candidature will consolidate minority support in Hyderabad and beyond. His induction also aligns with the party’s strategy to strengthen its minority outreach in view of the upcoming Bihar elections.

From Cricketing Glory to Political Responsibility

Mohammad Azharuddin captained the Indian cricket team through the 1990s, leading India in three consecutive World Cups (1992, 1996, 1999). Known for his wristy strokeplay and elegance, he scored over 6,000 runs in Test cricket and more than 9,000 in One Day Internationals. Post-retirement, he transitioned into politics, joining the Congress Party and winning the Moradabad Lok Sabha seat in 2009. His latest appointment marks a new chapter in a multifaceted public career spanning sports and governance.

Congress Eyes Broader Minority Support

The Congress leadership’s decision to induct Azharuddin follows persistent calls from Telangana’s party unit for minority representation in the state cabinet. His nomination as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) under the Governor’s quota in August was part of the same initiative, though final approval from the Governor is still awaited. Political observers believe his appointment will enhance Congress’s image as an inclusive party ahead of critical electoral contests.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Mohammad Azharuddin captained India in three World Cups — 1992, 1996, and 1999.
• He has scored over 9,000 ODI and 6,000 Test runs for India.
• Azharuddin became the first minority minister in Telangana’s Revanth Reddy cabinet in 2025.
• He previously served as a Congress MP from Moradabad (2009–2014).

Azharuddin’s Role in Telangana’s Political Landscape

As minister and Jubilee Hills by-poll candidate, Azharuddin’s political re-entry is expected to energise Congress’s Hyderabad base. His charisma, sports legacy, and minority outreach credentials may give the ruling party an edge in urban constituencies. For Telangana, his elevation signifies a blend of sportsmanship and governance, linking the fields of cricket and politics through a shared spirit of leadership and service.