Manjappa accused leaders of harming party image, opposed Abdul Jabbar’s reinstatement, and warned of protests against such move
Davangere
The Davangere District Congress has expelled six leaders for alleged anti-party activities during the Davangere South Assembly by-election, escalating internal tensions within the party. District Congress President H.B. Manjappa announced the action at a press conference.
The expelled leaders include supporters of MLC Abdul Jabbar—M.T. Subhash Chandra, former Waqf Board President Siraj Ahmed, Congress leader Ghani Taher, Kadati Tippesh, U.M. Mansoor Ali, and Inayatullah Khan. The party had earlier taken disciplinary action against Abdul Jabbar himself for similar charges.
Manjappa said the leaders had acted against party interests and damaged its image during the by-election. He also strongly objected to attempts to bring Abdul Jabbar back into the party after he was expelled by AICC and KPCC for six years. He warned that any move to reinstate him would be met with protests.
He alleged that some individuals had made statements and actions that insulted party leaders and weakened the Congress campaign during the election period. He said the district unit has already submitted a recommendation to the state leadership seeking strict action.
Davanagere South Block Congress President Ayub Pailwan also supported the decision and said evidence, including video clips, had been presented showing anti-party activities by the expelled members. He warned that party workers would stage protests in front of the KPCC office if Abdul Jabbar is taken back into the party. He further demanded that Jabbar be removed from his MLC position.
Former Mayor Chaman Saab urged party workers to remain united and avoid internal divisions. He said upcoming local body elections, including Zilla Panchayat, Taluk Panchayat, and Gram Panchayat polls, require strong coordination. He also cautioned against mixing religion with politics, stating it could harm Muslim candidates in local elections.
Party leaders emphasized that disciplinary action was necessary to protect the party’s unity and electoral prospects. The incident has highlighted growing internal differences in the district Congress unit ahead of upcoming elections.
