The move brings happiness among Muslims who see it as an overdue recognition of their contribution
HYDERABAD – The Congress government in Telangana has nominated former Indian cricket team captain Mohammad Azharuddin to the Legislative Council under the governor’s quota. The decision has been widely welcomed by the Muslim community, who view it as a moment of recognition in a time when minorities often feel politically sidelined.
Azharuddin, who has long balanced his roles as sportsman and politician, expressed gratitude in a heartfelt message. On X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “I have been nominated for the post of MLC under the governor’s quota in Telangana. I feel deeply honoured by this decision of the Cabinet.”
The former Indian cricket captain extended thanks to the Congress leadership, acknowledging the support of the party high command. “I thank Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and KC Venugopal for trusting me,” Azharuddin posted on Sunday.
He also praised the state leadership for their backing: “I am grateful to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, TPCC President Mahesh Goud and party’s Telangana in-charge Meenakshi Natarajan for their guidance and support.”
Azharuddin stressed that he remains committed to serving the people of Telangana with honesty and dedication. “I will always be committed to serve my state with honesty and dedication,” he assured, vowing to use his new role for the welfare of the people.
The Muslims community across Telangana has welcomed the move. Many see it as a long-awaited step towards ensuring that Muslim voices are heard in governance.
Mohammed Sajid, a social worker from the Old City, said: “This is not just about Azharuddin; this is about giving Muslims their rightful place in the politics of Telangana. We are often used only for votes, but rarely given responsibility.”
Another resident, Ayesha Begum, a teacher in Secunderabad, remarked: “Azharuddin has brought pride to the country as a cricketer. Now, as an MLC, he can also raise the issues of Muslims who face neglect.”
Despite being a popular figure, Azharuddin’s political journey has seen challenges. He was elected as a Lok Sabha MP from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, in 2009, but later faced defeats from Tonk-Sawai Madhopur Lok Sabha constituency in Rajasthan (2014) and from Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills assembly constituency in 2023.
Though his name surfaced for the Jubilee Hills by-election, he was denied a ticket earlier. Analysts say the party’s latest decision to nominate him to the Legislative Council is both recognition of his loyalty and a calculated move to strengthen Muslim representation in Telangana.
Political observers point out that Muslims form a significant portion of Telangana’s electorate, yet representation has often been controlled or limited. By nominating Azharuddin, the Congress government appears to be making a deliberate attempt to bridge this gap and assure Muslims of their place in governance.
Dr Khalid Ansari, a Hyderabad-based political analyst, said: “At a time when minorities in India feel insecure, this nomination shows that Congress wants to give Muslims a voice. It is both a symbolic and a practical step.”
While celebrations continue, many community members stress that symbolic appointments must be followed by actual policies that address Muslim concerns. Rising unemployment, educational challenges, and discrimination remain pressing issues.
“We welcome this decision, but Muslims also need better schools, jobs, and security. Representation in the Legislative Council is one step; justice in daily life is the real goal,” said Abdul Rahman, a student activist from Nizamabad.
