High-command consultations intensify; reshuffle & expansion on CM Revanth Reddy’s table..
Muralikrishna [Senior journalist]✍
Hyderabad: With the Congress government in Telangana completing one year in office, speculation is rife in political circles that a significant Cabinet reshuffle and expansion may be undertaken before the first week of December. Sources indicate that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has sent a preliminary “wish list” to the party high command in New Delhi, triggering intense lobbying both in Hyderabad and the capital.
Probable Exists…
According to insiders, a few ministers may be eased out to accommodate political, regional, and social compulsions.
Komatireddy Venkat Reddy:
The senior leader is tipped to make way amid persistent friction within the Komatireddy family. The CM is reportedly considering an internal swap to address the politically sensitive Nalgonda dynamics.
Ponnam Prabhakar:
Despite steering the RTC through a difficult financial phase and implementing the flagship Free Bus Travel scheme for women, Ponnam is said to be on the edge. His frequent off-the-cuff remarks are believed to have irked the leadership, prompting talk of organisational realignment.
Jupally Krishna Rao:
The minister’s involvement in the liquor hologram controversy linked to senior IAS officer Sam Rizvi and a long-running property dispute have placed him under the scanner.
Konda Surekha:
Her likely exit has been anticipated for some time. Once considered a strategic counterweight against critics, Surekha slipped out of favour after her daughter’s strong public comments alleging intimidation and misuse of power within the government.
Probable New Entrants…
While nothing is final until the high command approves the list, a few names are emerging as frontrunners.
Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy:
Long a thorn in Revanth Reddy’s political journey, Rajagopal Reddy may finally receive the ministerial berth reportedly promised to him during political negotiations.
Adi Srinivas:
The Congress leadership is inclined to include him to reassure the Munnur Kapu community following Konda Surekha’s expected exit.
Vijayashanthi:
Though not originally on the Chief Minister’s preference list, her name is said to have gained traction in Delhi. Her induction, if approved, will be seen as a national level decision.
More Changes Likely…
Several other names are reportedly under consideration as the leadership aims to balance caste equations, regional aspirations, gender representation, and performance parameters. Ministers are said to be making last-minute appeals, with hectic movement observed at ministerial residences and the AICC office.
Amid the political buzz, citizens are hoping the reshuffle prioritises administrative efficiency. There is growing demand for a full-time Home Minister and a dedicated Education Minister, roles considered crucial for governance stability.
What Lies Ahead?
For now, the list circulating within party circles remains only a set of proposals from the Chief Minister. The final call rests with the Congress high command. As Telangana completes its first year under the Congress regime, the reshuffle could shape the government’s narrative for the remaining term.
