HYDERABAD: The Congress high command has sent signals to state leaders indicating that a Telangana cabinet expansion will take place soon after the assembly session concludes. The preparations for this have already begun, with party state in-charge Meenakshi Natarajan gathering reports.
Consultations are underway with the Chief Minister, ministers, the PCC chief, party leaders, and grassroots workers. Along with cabinet expansion, the high command is also focusing on the formation of the PCC executive committee and the appointment of nominated positions. These processes were delayed due to the recent change in the party’s state in-charge. The opposition has criticized the ruling party for failing to proceed with these appointments.
Meanwhile, dissatisfaction has been growing within the party due to the delay in filling key posts. To address this, the high command is keen on finalizing the appointments immediately after the assembly session. Discussions within the party suggest that if all goes as planned, the appointments may be completed before Ugadi.
PCC Executive Committee Finalised
The process of finalizing the PCC executive committee is reportedly complete. A list has been prepared, including four working presidents and around 20 vice presidents. Additionally, clarity has been achieved regarding the appointment of state- and district-level chairpersons and directors for nominated positions. The party leadership intends to prioritize those who worked hard for the party’s success in the assembly and parliamentary elections. Appointments are expected to be made based on a minimum of ten years of seniority in the party. The names of MLAs are being considered for key corporation chairman posts, including RTC and Civil Supplies.
Four Out of Six Vacant Cabinet Positions to Be Filled
The high command has reportedly decided to proceed with both the PCC executive appointments and cabinet expansion without any further delay. Currently, six cabinet positions are vacant, and discussions suggest that four of these will be filled immediately. The remaining two are expected to be appointed later.
Of the four appointments, three will be allocated to districts that currently lack representation in the cabinet, specifically Adilabad, Nizamabad, and the undivided Ranga Reddy district. The fourth ministerial post is likely to be given to the undivided Mahabubnagar district.
Additionally, there is speculation that the undivided Nalgonda district may also receive another ministerial position. If the high command considers both regional balance and social representation, there is a possibility of filling all six cabinet positions. Further clarity on this matter is expected soon.