Bypoll sabotage row: 'I am being blamed, but acted on party's directive': DK Shivakumar on action against Congress leaders

The deputy CM met with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi and discussed the Congress’ recent decision to suspend MLC Abdul Jabbar for “anti-party” activities and the sacking of another MLC Naseer Ahmed as the chief minister’s political secretary.

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Congress president D K Shivakumar on Friday defended the disciplinary action initiated against the party’s Muslim leaders, clarifying that it was done upon the directions of the top brass.

Shivakumar was speaking after a meeting with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi. They discussed the Congress’ recent decision to suspend MLC Abdul Jabbar for “anti-party” activities and the sacking of another MLC Naseer Ahmed as the chief minister’s political secretary.

Jabbar and Ahmed have been accused of conspiring to defeat the party in the April 9 Davangere South bypoll.

“There’s nothing personal about this. They (Jabbar and Ahmed) are our leaders. But the party has its own reports. Without Delhi’s permission and direction, we can’t take such action. We have to act under their guidance,” Shivakumar said.

“People may blame me, but I’m not worried. All must work together by following the party’s discipline,” Shivakumar said.

Asked about the Congress being seen as targeting its Dalit and minority leaders, Shivakumar said: “The entire Congress party stands on SC, ST, minorities, OBCs, farmers...Congress is there to give justice to all sections of the society.”

Satish said he met Shivakumar to do “damage control” following a narrative that the Congress was targeting Muslims after Valmikis. Satish is a Valmiki (ST) himself. He was referring to actions against Jabbar and Ahmed as well as the sacking of KN Rajanna (a Valmiki) from the Cabinet last year.

“I told (Shivakumar) that Jabbar must be reinstated. He said a notice will be issued to Jabbar, his explanation sought and then discuss it with the party top brass,” Satish said. “We must take (Jabbar) back. Dalits and minorities are our voters,” he added.