Telangana: Dalit Outrage as Minorities Welfare Portfolio Moved to Azharuddin

The Telangana Congress government’s recent cabinet reshuffle has sparked controversy, particularly among Dalit groups, after the Minorities Welfare portfolio was taken from Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar and reassigned to Mohammed Azharuddin. The decision, which has drawn sharp criticism, has reignited concerns about fair representation and inclusivity within the Revanth Reddy-led government.

Laxman Kumar, inducted into the cabinet in June 2025, was initially entrusted with the SC, ST, and Minorities Welfare portfolios. However, following the induction of former cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin into the cabinet on October 31, the government transferred the Minorities Welfare department to him, along with the Public Enterprises portfolio previously held by the Chief Minister.

The move has triggered unease within the party, particularly since it follows closely after BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s body-shaming remarks against Laxman Kumar—a controversy that had already angered Dalit groups. Many see the reassignment as an “insult added to injury,” questioning the timing and political motives behind the change.

Critics argue that allocating the Minorities Welfare portfolio to Azharuddin merely based on his community background undermines merit-based governance. There was speculation that Azharuddin, given his rapport with the Gandhi family, might have been considered for the Home portfolio—a position held by minorities in the previous BRS government under Mohammed Mahmood Ali.

Surprisingly, despite his celebrated sports career, Azharuddin was not given the Sports Ministry, a move questioned by opposition leaders and analysts alike. BRS leader A Rakesh Reddy remarked on social media that Azharuddin could have contributed significantly to sports development in Telangana.

While the Congress leadership remains silent on the rationale behind the reshuffle, the episode has stirred resentment among Dalit leaders and widened internal rifts within the party ahead of key by-elections.