Karnataka Deputy CM Clarifies Stance Amidst Congress Party Turmoil

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar distanced himself from actions taken against minority Congress leaders following accusations of an internal conspiracy during recent bypolls. He clarified that decisions were made by the party's high command using available reports, and not by him personally.

Emphasizing the importance of discipline within the party, Shivakumar, also the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, assured that actions were not intended to target minorities, a concern raised by some party members. Among the actions, MLC K Abdul Jabbar was suspended, and MLC Naseer Ahmed was relieved from his post due to alleged conspiracies during the Davanagere South bypolls.

Addressing speculations of factionalism within the ruling party, Shivakumar firmly denied any rift, insisting that media narratives were creating false divisions among leaders. Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi, concerned about the signal sent by disciplining minority leaders, met with Shivakumar for discussions on corrective measures and party unity.