Demand for Stronger Muslim Representation in Karnataka Cabinet Gains Momentum

Bengaluru: Demands for greater Muslim representation in the Karnataka Cabinet are intensifying as community leaders and supporters hold protests and public meetings across different parts of the state.

Several Muslim organisations and local leaders have urged Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to include more members of the community in the upcoming cabinet expansion. Their primary demand is the induction of senior Congress leaders B Z Zameer Ahmad Khan, N A Harris, Tanveer Sait, and Saleem Ahmed into the ministry. Community representatives have argued that Muslims deserve at least five positions in the state cabinet.

The Congress government is already dealing with dissatisfaction among some party legislators following the first phase of cabinet formation. Thirteen ministers were sworn in alongside Chief Minister Shivakumar on June 3, with the party attempting to balance representation among various communities. So far, U T Khader is the only Muslim leader included in the cabinet.

Since the leadership transition, demonstrations have been organised in several districts, not only demanding increased Muslim representation but also expressing support for specific leaders.

In Vijayanagara district, supporters staged a protest in Hospet calling for Zameer Ahmad Khan to be included in the cabinet. Zameer had previously served as the minister in charge of the district and continues to enjoy strong backing among local party workers and community members.

A similar protest was held in Raichur, where supporters argued that Muslim leaders were being treated unfairly compared to politicians from other communities. Protesters referred to past allegations of internal party disagreements and questioned what they viewed as inconsistent disciplinary action within the Congress.

Supporters also pointed to earlier instances in which senior leaders accused of anti party activities did not face significant consequences, fueling a perception of unequal treatment.

Another demonstration took place in Hosadurga in Chitradurga district on June 6, where participants demanded that Legislative Council member and Congress Chief Whip Saleem Ahmed be appointed as a minister.

Community leaders from northern Karnataka emphasized that the region’s Muslims have consistently supported the Congress party in elections and deserve a stronger voice in government. They argued that Muslim leaders from the region have often been overlooked during cabinet formation despite their political contributions and public service.

Aafnag Yousuf Usman, a community representative, said that Muslims from Kittur Karnataka and northern parts of the state have not received adequate cabinet representation for many years. He highlighted Saleem Ahmed’s experience in organisational work, social service, and public life, describing him as a suitable candidate for a ministerial position.

With another round of cabinet expansion expected in the coming weeks, the Congress leadership may face increasing pressure to balance political considerations while addressing demands from various communities and party factions.