HYDERABAD: With Cabinet expansion in Telangana still pending and a full-fledged Pradesh Congress Committee yet to be formed, dissatisfaction is growing among senior Congress leaders in the state.
It may be recalled that some MLAs recently held a secret meeting to discuss the latest political developments and the government’s functioning, leading to a heated political atmosphere. Following these discussions, the party also convened a Congress Legislative Party meeting to pacify the MLAs, urging them to remain patient, with assurances that the issues would be resolved soon.
Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, key ministers and the PCC chief Mahesh Kumar Goud also visited Delhi to discuss the matter with the high command, but no concrete decision has been made over the past 15 days.
Throughout this episode, the chief minister has repeatedly stated that Cabinet expansion is not within his control and that the high command will take a call. This has only added to the frustration among aspirants.
The Pradesh Congress Committee president has echoed the same stance, raising concerns among party members about whether enough pressure is being exerted on the high command to expedite the process.
Legislators are questioning why the Congress high command has not prioritised expansion of the Cabinet or appointed a full committee for the PCC. Senior party leaders, including ministers, claim that if the situation persists for a few more months, the consequences could be unforeseen.
MLC vacancies a factor?
Legislators aspiring for Cabinet positions have made several attempts to secure berths, mounting pressure on their political mentors at both state and national levels, but without success.
Although the state is currently under various election-related codes, these do not impact expansion. Furthermore, local body elections are expected to take about two months due to the upcoming discussion on the caste census bill. Given these circumstances, MLAs are calling for immediate Cabinet expansion and the formation of a full-fledged PCC.
Another discussion within the party suggests that the upcoming MLC vacancy might be a factor in the delay, as there are plans to accommodate a minority leader as a minister. Some also speculate that a Cabinet reshuffle could be on the cards.
A few leaders anticipate that expansion may take place after the local body elections. However, this could pose a risk, as several districts currently lack representation in the Cabinet.