Azharuddin sworn-in as Telangana minister ahead of Jubilee Hills bypoll

Cricketer-turned-politician Mohammad Azharuddin was on Friday sworn-in as a minister in the Revanth Reddy-led Telangana Cabinet, even as the Opposition BJP objected to his inclusion, claiming the move violates the model code of conduct in view of the Jubilee Hills bypoll, scheduled for November 11.

Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Verma administered the oath of office and secrecy to Azharuddin.

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Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and other senior Congress leaders of the state were present during the event held at Raj Bhavan.

After taking oath, Azharuddin thanked the party high-command, public and his supporters.

Refering to the BJP’s objection, he asserted that his inclusion in the state cabinet has nothing to do with the Jubilee by-election.

“These are two separate matters and should not be linked. Whatever responsibility I am given, I will work honestly for the upliftment of the oppressed people,” he said.

The Congress leader said BJP’s G Kishan Reddy can say anything but he does not need a certificate of patriotism from anyone.