Revanth Reddy meets Governor, sparks buzz over Azharuddin MLC nomination

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s meeting with Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has triggered speculation over the pending MLC nomination of Mohd Azharuddin. With a constitutional deadline approaching, political observers believe the discussion focused on expediting the approval process.

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy met Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla at Raj Bhavan on Sunday, triggering speculation over the purpose of the meeting.

The Chief Minister’s Office said the discussion focused on certain issues related to the education sector. However, political circles believe the meeting may also have touched upon the pending MLC nomination of Minorities Welfare Minister Mohd Azharuddin under the Governor’s quota.

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The State Cabinet had recommended the names of Prof. M. Kodandaram and Mohd Azharuddin for MLC posts under the Governor’s quota on August 30, 2025. This followed the Supreme Court striking down the earlier appointments of Kodandaram and Siasat editor Amer Ali Khan.

Azharuddin’s nomination was seen as part of the Congress strategy ahead of the Jubilee Hills by-election. He was sworn in as Minister on October 31, 2025, and the party went on to win the bypoll in December.

As per constitutional provisions, Azharuddin must secure membership in either the Assembly or the Legislative Council within six months. This deadline ends on April 30. If he fails to do so, he will have to step down as Minister.

Given the deadline, political observers feel the Chief Minister’s meeting with the Governor was aimed at expediting approval of the nomination. The delay is believed to be linked to earlier legal issues and administrative processes.

Legislative Affairs Minister D. Sridhar Babu and Rajya Sabha MP Vem Narender Reddy accompanied the Chief Minister. Chief Secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao had also met the Governor a day earlier.