Muslim ulema express anger against Congress govt after Davanagere bypoll row

Bengaluru : Discontent is brewing within sections of the Muslim community against the Karnataka government following developments related to the Davanagere By Election, with several ulema leaders openly criticising the ruling Indian National Congress.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, members of the Ulema expressed strong dissatisfaction over what they described as the sidelining of Muslim leaders within the party. They alleged that despite consistently supporting Congress in elections, the community’s concerns are not being addressed adequately.

“We have stood by Congress and contributed to its growth through our votes. However, in the Davanagere by-election, our leaders were pushed to the margins,” one of the ulema representatives said, voicing frustration over internal political decisions.

The leaders also criticised the government’s handling of key issues affecting the community. They pointed out that despite being in power for nearly three years, the government has not taken decisive action on matters such as the hijab row and reservation concerns.

“On critical issues like the hijab controversy and reservation policies, there has been no meaningful progress. When the community raises concerns, it feels like we are being pacified with temporary assurances rather than concrete solutions,” they alleged.

The ulema further warned the party leadership about growing resentment at the grassroots level. They specifically referred to the issue of Abdul Jabbar’s expulsion, stating that failure to revoke the decision could have political consequences.

“If the action against Abdul Jabbar is not reconsidered, the party will have to pay a price. The community is watching closely,” they cautioned.

The remarks highlight emerging tensions between sections of the Muslim community and the Congress leadership in Karnataka, particularly in the wake of recent electoral developments. Political observers note that such public criticism from religious leaders could impact the party’s traditional support base if not addressed promptly.

The Congress party has not yet officially responded to these allegations. However, the developments are expected to intensify internal discussions within the party as it navigates both governance challenges and electoral pressures.