Telangana: Cabinet Expansion Hopes Rise as Assembly Polls Conclude, Aspirants Hopeful of Nod by Dec. 7

 Hyderabad: With the conclusion of Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, there is renewed optimism regarding the long-delayed Cabinet expansion in Telangana. There is speculation that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy may receive the green signal from the party high command to expand the Cabinet before the government completes its first anniversary on December 7.

The Assembly Winter Session starts on December 9. The Cabinet has a capacity of 18 members but currently has 12 minister, including Revanth Reddy.

Aspirants for these Cabinet positions have been waiting for nearly a year. Despite Reddy's more than 20 visits to Delhi over the past year, each trip sparking speculation of an imminent Cabinet expansion, the process has remained stalled.

The delay has been attributed to the Congress high command's focus on elections in other states. With no major polls scheduled until the Delhi elections in February, aspirants are optimistic that the high command will prioritise Telangana's Cabinet expansion.

Currently, there is no cabinet representation from Adilabad, Nizamabad, Rangareddy and Hyderabad districts. There is also no representation from the minority community. Sources suggest that Reddy has proposed filling the vacancies with two members from the Reddy community and one each from the BC, ST, SC, and minority communities.

Revanth Reddy feels that a full-fledged Cabinet can strengthen administration, help better implement the welfare schemes, address concerns within the party and bolster the Congress’ prospects in the upcoming local body elections.