Shivakumar Denies Personal Role in Action Against Congress Minority Leaders
Karnataka Deputy CM says disciplinary steps were taken by party leadership, not at his discretion
D K Shivakumar on Friday distanced himself from the recent disciplinary action taken against some Congress leaders from the minority community, saying the decisions were made by the party’s central leadership based on internal reports.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Shivakumar clarified that he had no personal involvement in the matter. As the president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, he stressed that decisions involving legislators cannot be made at the state level without approval from the party high command in Delhi.
He emphasized the importance of discipline within the party, stating that all members are expected to follow organizational rules regardless of individual opinions. Addressing concerns that the action could be perceived as targeting Muslim leaders, Shivakumar said the Congress remains committed to the welfare of all communities, including minorities, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and farmers.
The controversy follows action against leaders such as K Abdul Jabbar, who was suspended from the party, and Naseer Ahmed, who was removed from his role as political secretary to the Chief Minister. The decisions came after allegations that some leaders had worked against the party’s official candidate during the Davanagere South bypoll.
Reports suggest that some leaders had pushed for a Muslim candidate instead of Samarth Mallikarjun, who was eventually fielded. There were also claims that they did not actively campaign during the election.
Speculation has also emerged around possible action against Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan, though no official confirmation has been made.
Rejecting talk of internal divisions, Shivakumar dismissed claims of factionalism within the Congress. He said all legislators are united under the leadership of Siddaramaiah and that reports of camps within the party are largely media-driven.
Meanwhile, Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi met Shivakumar to discuss both governance issues and party matters. Jarkiholi later said he had raised concerns about the suspension of Jabbar and suggested reconsidering the decision.
He indicated that the issue may be taken up with the party leadership in Delhi and that a review process, including issuing a notice and seeking a response from Jabbar, could be considered before any final decision is made.
Jarkiholi described the meeting as an effort toward “damage control,” acknowledging that certain decisions may require correction over time.