BENGALURU: As the results of the Davanagere South by-election become clear, the Congress party in Karnataka is grappling with renewed internal conflicts, especially among its Muslim members. Tensions that built up during the campaign have now surfaced, revealing significant divisions and claims of deliberate interference within the organization.
The bypoll, rather than fostering solidarity, has deepened suspicions among party figures. Prominent Muslim members have pointed fingers at Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan for acting against the party’s interests in this key contest. These concerns have been raised with AICC general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, signaling the gravity of the situation.
Public criticism of Zameer Ahmed Khan
In an unusual display of unity, key figures such as MLA Rizwan Arshad, MLC Salim Ahmed, Yasin Khan Pathan, and Bilkis Banu held a shared media briefing to reveal what they called critical insights into the party’s operations during the bypoll.
Initially avoiding direct mentions, the group criticized Zameer Ahmed Khan’s approach, labeling it as overly individualistic and marginalizing other leaders from minority groups. They called for recognition and rewards for those who supported the party in the election, pointing to frustrations over management and resource allocation.
Rizwan Arshad noted that while many collaborated under party guidance, some key figures did not fulfill their duties. The omission of Zameer’s involvement in active campaigning has sparked questions about his intentional withdrawal.
Claims of interference and plotting
The dissenting members escalated their accusations, suggesting that some within the party collaborated with rivals to undermine the Congress nominee. Although no concrete proof was offered, these statements reflect a profound erosion of confidence among the minority wing.
Insiders report that during the height of campaign strains, Rizwan Arshad and Salim Ahmed were directed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to mediate with unhappy members, including convincing a separate group to cooperate. A short-term resolution was reached, but core issues persisted. Post-election, these unresolved matters have led to outright disputes.
Dispute over candidate selection fuels splits
The current unrest stems from the process of choosing the candidate for the Davanagere South bypoll. Zameer Ahmed Khan had indicated that a Muslim contender would be selected, positioning himself as a major advocate for minority inclusion in the region.
Yet, when no such candidate was chosen, disappointment grew among supporters who had relied on his assurances. This perceived letdown expanded the divisions, and his later detachment from the area worsened matters.
Multiple minority figures now assert that Zameer not only couldn’t obtain the nomination but also stepped back from campaigning, forcing others to handle the consequences.
Limited involvement in campaigning draws scrutiny
Further fueling the debate is Zameer Ahmed Khan’s minimal engagement in Davanagere throughout the election period. After the candidate was named, he reportedly avoided the area, mentioning obligations tied to polls in Kerala.
Under urging from local members and party staff, he made a short trip to Davanagere, prompted by the chief minister and deputy chief minister. However, the visit was understated, consisting of a closed-door discussion and a hasty departure, which has intensified doubts about his dedication.
Notably, while he was scarcely present in Davanagere, Zameer participated vigorously in campaigns elsewhere, such as in Bagalkot, a fact that has caught the attention of party observers.
Results could influence next steps
With the bypoll outcome still under review, Congress officials recognize that the results might significantly affect internal relations. A strong win could lead to minimizing the conflicts and projecting harmony.
Conversely, a loss might provoke a more severe fallout. Those opposing the current setup are ready to intensify their grievances, and signs suggest the discontent could spread beyond Muslim members. Representatives from other groups, like Lingayats, are monitoring the situation and might add their voices to the dissent.
Congress confronts growing internal rivalries
This developing scenario underscores a larger issue for the Congress in Karnataka: balancing personal goals and maintaining unified direction across various communities.
