Published Apr 30, 2026 | 3:16 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 30, 2026 | 3:18 PM
V. Hanumantha Rao and B. Shivadhar Reddy appointed as advisors. (X)
Synopsis: A veteran leader and former Rajya Sabha member with nearly 18 years, Rao’s appointment is being projected by the government as part of its effort to empower BCs. However, the decision has triggered discontent within sections of the BC community and the Congress party. It is being pointed out that figures of Rao’s seniority are typically accorded Cabinet rank, not Minister of State status.
The Telangana government has made two key high-level appointments, naming senior Congress leader V. Hanumantha Rao as Advisor on Backward Classes (BC) Welfare and Development, and former Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy as State Security Advisor (SSA).
Hanumantha Rao’s appointment was formalised through G.O.Rt. No. 560 issued on 29 April, 2026. He has been accorded the rank and status of a Minister of State.
A veteran leader and former Rajya Sabha member with nearly 18 years, Rao’s appointment is being projected by the government as part of its effort to empower BCs.
However, the decision has triggered discontent within sections of the BC community and the Congress party. It is being pointed out that figures of Rao’s seniority are typically accorded Cabinet rank, not Minister of State status.
They cite precedents where leaders such as Md Shabbir Ali and P Sudarshan Reddy were given Cabinet rank in similar advisory roles.
Many BC leaders view the current decision as a slight, arguing that it diminishes the stature of a senior BC face and reflects inadequate political recognition.
In contrast, the appointment of Shivadhar Reddy as State Security Advisor has drawn a positive response in official circles. He has been tasked with advising the government on policing, law and order, internal security, crime control, narcotics regulation, and road safety for a period of three years.
A seasoned police officer, Shivadhar Reddy is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies and enhancing the state’s response to evolving security challenges, including organised crime and drug trafficking.
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(Edited by Sumavarsha)
