Karnataka Congress Suspends MLC Abdul Jabbar Over Anti-Party Activities in Bypolls
In a significant disciplinary move, the Karnataka Congress has suspended Abdul Jabbar, a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), over allegations of anti-party activities during the recent bypolls in the Davanagere South Assembly constituency. The suspension order was issued on Wednesday by the party's state president and Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, with immediate effect.
Background of the Controversy
Abdul Jabbar had actively sought a ticket from the Congress party to contest the Davanagere South bypolls, aiming to transition from his role as an MLC to become a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). Despite his requests, the party leadership chose to field Samarth Shamanur Mallikarjuna as their candidate instead. This decision reportedly led to Jabbar's alleged support for other candidates during the election, which the Congress has deemed as anti-party behavior.
The suspension order explicitly states: "Abdul Jabbar, Member of Legislative Council, No.24, 4th Road, Benson A-Cross Road, Benson Town, Bengaluru is hereby suspended from the primary membership of the Indian National Congress party (INC) with immediate effect, in view of his anti-party activities in recent by-election of Davanagere South Assembly Constituency."
Jabbar's Earlier Statements and Aspirations
Earlier, on March 15, MLC Jabbar had publicly expressed his desire to contest the bypolls. He emphasized his extensive experience and contributions to the party, stating, "I am asking for a ticket from the party, and I am not just demanding it without reason. I am an MLC and I want to become an MLA, I have over 40 years of experience. I have been a district president."
He further highlighted his electoral work, saying, "At least in two-three Parliamentary elections I have worked, I have worked in so many areas to get a Congress candidate elected. In recent elections I have gone to many places to make Congress win." Jabbar also addressed comments from other leaders, noting, "What Zameer (BZ Zameer Khan, Karnataka minister) said is not correct too. Wherever there are voters in large numbers, Zameer sir should go there. Some leaders used to not go to constituencies, now they went to those places that is why we won so many seats."
Reasons for Seeking the Ticket
Jabbar explained his preference for the Davanagere South seat, stating, "I am trying for Davangere south, because it is easier for me (to contest) rather than other candidates here. That is why I am trying. District leaders are asking, others are also asking. Our claim is that I should get the ticket, someone else can become an MLC. I have 2 years of time to become MLA."
Despite his aspirations, Jabbar had previously affirmed his loyalty to the Congress party, adding, "I have hope from the party that I would get the ticket. If I get the ticket then I can't say anything, and I can't leave the party. I support the party."
Context of the Bypolls
The by-elections in Davanagere South and Bagalkot constituencies in Karnataka were held concurrently and concluded on April 9. The Congress fielded Samarth Shamanur Mallikarjuna, while the BJP candidate was Srinivas T Dasakariyappa. The Davanagere South seat had become vacant following the death of Congress MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa, prompting the bypoll.
This suspension underscores the internal challenges within the Karnataka Congress as it navigates electoral strategies and party discipline. The move by DK Shivakumar signals a firm stance against any actions perceived as undermining the party's unity and electoral prospects.
