The Congress government in Karnataka is facing a significant challenge as Muslim religious leaders and Ulemas have intensified their demand for greater representation in the state cabinet. During a high-profile meeting, these leaders formally requested the inclusion of 5 Muslim leaders in the ministry, asserting that the community's overwhelming support was the primary reason for the party's return to power in the state. The leaders emphasized that without the consolidated vote of the Muslim community, the current political landscape in Karnataka would have been very different.
Meeting at Hazrat Syed Fateh Shah Wali Dargah
The demand was formally raised during a meeting of Muslim leaders and Ulemas held on Wednesday evening at the Hazrat Syed Fateh Shah Wali Dargah, located in Bellinagar, Hubli. The gathering wasn't just a political discussion but also included a special prayer session. The religious leaders used this platform to send a clear message to the Congress leadership regarding the community's expectations. They argued that since the government was formed with the significant backing of Muslim voters, it's only fair that the community receives adequate representation in the governance of the state.
Specific Names Proposed for Cabinet Berths
During the deliberations, the names of several senior Congress leaders were put forward for ministerial positions, while the leaders specifically mentioned B. Z, while zameer Ahmed Khan, N. A. Harris, Tanveer Sait, and Saleem Ahmed as deserving candidates for the cabinet. They pointed out that while U, while t. Khader has already been appointed to the prestigious constitutional post of Assembly Speaker, there is still a need for 4 more senior leaders from the community to be inducted as ministers to reach the total of 5 representatives. One religious leader addressed the gathering, stating that if these 5 leaders aren't given their due place in the cabinet, the consequences in the coming days will be serious. He further added that the government itself would be responsible for any such situation.
Emphasis on Community Loyalty and Political Strength
The Ulemas highlighted the long-standing loyalty of the Muslim community towards the Congress party. One speaker noted that Muslims have consistently voted for Congress with the hope and trust that the party would form the government and look after their interests. They described the community's electoral support as a debt that the Congress party now needs to repay. The leaders also spoke about the individual contributions of the proposed ministers, noting that figures like Saleem Ahmed, Zameer Ahmed Khan, N. A. Harris, and Tanveer Sait have stood firmly with the party for the last 35 to 40 years. They argued that these leaders have worked tirelessly for both the party and the community, making them the most suitable candidates for ministerial responsibilities.
Warning of Statewide Agitation
The tone of the meeting turned stern as some speakers warned of a massive political backlash if their demands were ignored. One speaker explicitly stated that if the 5 ministerial posts aren't granted, the community will be forced to show its political strength. The religious leaders warned that they're prepared to launch a statewide movement across Karnataka to protest against the lack of representation. They concluded by saying that fulfilling this demand would be beneficial for everyone in the future, ensuring continued harmony and support between the party and the community.