BELAGAVI: Discontent appears to be simmering within the state Congress following disciplinary action against two Muslim leaders accused of anti-party activities during the recent by-election in Davanagere South Assembly constituency.
The issue has triggered unease within sections of the party, with senior leaders now stepping in to address the fallout. Karnataka Housing and Minority Welfare Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has openly expressed his displeasure over the action, signalling concerns over its political messaging and potential impact on the party’s minority support base.
In a fresh development, Khan met Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi at the latter’s residence in Bengaluru on Thursday, a meeting that has drawn considerable attention within political circles.
Satish, who had earlier voiced objections to the disciplinary measures, is understood to have already taken up the matter with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who is the state Congress chief.
According to sources close to Satish, the discussions centred around the circumstances leading to the action against the Muslim leaders and the broader implications for party unity. The controversy is linked to allegations that the two leaders engaged in activities contrary to party interests during the bypoll campaign.
While the party leadership has maintained that disciplinary action is essential to uphold organisational discipline, several leaders within the Congress argue that the move may have been hasty, especially given the party’s reliance on minority support in several regions of the state.
The meeting between Khan and Jarkiholi is being viewed as an attempt to build internal consensus and convey concerns to the top leadership. It also reflects a growing demand within the party for a more consultative approach in handling sensitive issues involving community representation.
Political experts feel that the Congress, which has traditionally enjoyed strong backing from minority communities, will need to carefully navigate the situation to avoid any perception of alienation.