After protests by Muslim organisations over ‘biased’ action, Congress leaders begin damage control, hint at reinstating Abdul Jabbar and Naseer Ahmed
BENGALURU —The Congress leadership in Karnataka has begun efforts to calm rising anger among Muslims following disciplinary action against two senior leaders, with clear signals that the party may review its decision amid strong protests from community groups.
The controversy began after the party suspended MLC Abdul Jabbar and removed MLC Naseer Ahmed from his post as political secretary to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, citing alleged anti-party activities during the 9 April Davangere South by-election. The move triggered widespread resentment among Muslims, who form an important part of the Congress support base in the state.
Senior minister Satish Jarkiholi has taken the lead in what is being seen as a damage-control exercise. Speaking to the media, he said the party is aware of the concerns within the minority community and is working to address them.
“We will seek permission from the high command and make sure that Abdul Jabbar returns to the party,” Jarkiholi said. “We aim to protect minorities and address their concerns.”
Muslim organisations reacted sharply to the action against the two leaders, calling it “discriminatory and one-sided”. In a letter addressed to the party leadership, several groups stated that senior leaders should have been given the opportunity to present their side before any decision was made.
“This action has caused disappointment among traditional supporters of the party,” one community representative said. “If such steps continue, it may lead to political loss.”
The developments have also sparked wider discussion in political circles about whether disciplinary action is being applied selectively. Questions are being raised over whether leaders from a particular community are being targeted, adding to the unease.
Another community leader said, “We have always supported the Congress. But actions like these send the wrong message. There must be fairness and equal treatment.”
The Congress, which came to power in Karnataka with strong backing from minority voters, is now facing the challenge of maintaining that trust. Muslims make up more than 13 per cent of the state’s population and have played a key role in recent electoral victories.
Political observers believe the party cannot afford to ignore the growing dissatisfaction. “The Congress depends heavily on minority votes in Karnataka,” a political analyst said. “Any perception of injustice could hurt the party in the long run.”
Jarkiholi has already held detailed discussions with KPCC president and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on the issue. The matter is expected to be placed before the party high command soon, with the possibility of reversing the disciplinary action being actively considered.
A senior party insider said, “The leadership understands the seriousness of the situation. Steps will be taken to rebuild trust and ensure that the community feels respected.”
For now, the Congress appears to be walking a careful line—trying to balance internal discipline with the need to reassure one of its most important support groups. Whether the proposed steps will be enough to calm the anger remains to be seen.
