Bengaluru, April 14, 2026: Karnataka Congress President and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday responded to the dismissal of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s political secretary, Naseer Ahmed (also spelled Nasir or Nazir Ahmed), an MLC, stating that the decision was taken in the interest of the party based on inputs from multiple sources.
The removal, notified by the state personnel and administrative reforms department on April 13 with immediate effect, stems from allegations that Ahmed worked against the official Congress candidate in the April 9 bypoll to the Davangere South assembly seat. The Congress candidate, Samarth Shamanuru (son of Mines and Geology Minister S.S. Mallikarjun), faced internal discord amid claims that some Muslim leaders, including Ahmed, supported or indirectly aided the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) candidate, contributing to party tensions.
Shivakumar addressed the media in Bengaluru, backing the Chief Minister’s move and emphasizing party discipline. He remarked that the action followed reliable information gathered through various channels, underscoring accountability within the organization. This comes shortly after the party accepted the resignation of KPCC Minority Cell chairman K. Abdul Jabbar, also linked to the bypoll fallout, with the minority wing reportedly dissolved.
# Background of the Controversy
The Davangere South bypoll, triggered by the resignation or disqualification of the sitting MLA, exposed rifts within Karnataka Congress, particularly among minority leaders. Reports from intelligence agencies and an AICC inquiry led by secretary Abhishek Dutt allegedly flagged anti-party activities by Ahmed, Jabbar, and Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan. Allegations included open demands for a Muslim candidate from the community-heavy constituency and possible covert support for the SDPI nominee.
Congress high command, including in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala, reportedly directed disciplinary steps. Ahmed was asked to step down, with some accounts describing it as a resignation under pressure to avoid formal dismissal. A government notification simply stated he was “relieved from the post of political secretary to the chief minister with immediate effect.”
On Monday, Muslim Congress workers from districts like Kolar and Chikkaballapur gathered at Ahmed’s residence, urging him not to resign and expressing solidarity. However, the high command’s directive prevailed.
# Reactions and Implications
Shivakumar’s response signals an effort to project unity and firmness from the party leadership amid ongoing factional undercurrents between the Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar camps. CM Siddaramaiah had earlier indicated action against those involved in any “conspiracy” to defeat the party candidate. Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has denied wrongdoing, with his position reportedly under review ahead of a possible cabinet reshuffle.
The episode highlights persistent internal challenges for the Congress government in Karnataka, just months after assuming power, with the high command cracking the whip to enforce discipline following the bypoll setback.
Political observers note that while the move aims to deter future anti-party activities, it risks deepening discontent among minority sections of the party base. Further developments, including any additional disciplinary measures, are awaited.
For More News Updates Follow Us On www.tconews.in
