Azharuddin, Kodandaram Take Oath As MLCs

Telangana Minority Welfare Minister Mohammed Azharuddin today took oath as a Member of the Telangana Legislative Council.

Along with him, statehood struggle activist and retired Professor M Kodandaram also took oath.

The oath was administered by Legislative Council Chairman Gutha Sukender Reddy.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Legislative Council Deputy Chairman Banda Prakash Mudiraj, ministers Sridhar Babu and Vivek Venkataswamy, MP Vem Narender Reddy, government whips, MLCs and MLAs.

After taking the oath, Azharuddin addressed the media and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister for his continued support and encouragement. He said that the CM had done a lot for him and for the welfare of minorities in Telangana.

He also conveyed his sincere thanks to All India Congress Committee (AICC) leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi for their guidance and support.

The minister also thanked his Cabinet colleagues, the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee leadership, party workers, admirers and supporters.

He said that he would continue to work tirelessly for the people of Telangana, and remain committed to the development and welfare of minorities.

Responding to the opposition's criticism, he said that it was natural for rival parties to make comments even as the government remained focused on public welfare and development.

The swearing in of the two new MLCs was made possible by the Governor clearing their nominations last week after an eight-month delay, and in the last minute for Azharuddin who needed to become an MLA or MLC by April 30 to continue as a minister.