Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) In response to the recent dismissal of Congress MLC and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Political Secretary, Naseer Ahmad, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, emphasized the significance of party discipline.

During a media interaction at his residence in Sadashivanagar and later at the KPCC office, Shivakumar remarked that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made the decision regarding Naseer Ahmad after receiving information from various sources, prioritizing the party's interests.

He noted that the Chief Minister's actions were informed by reports from multiple channels.

When questioned about Ahmad’s removal from his role as Political Secretary, Shivakumar stated, “Naseer was directed by the party to visit the Davanagere South Assembly constituency to ensure that the rebel candidate withdrew from the race. He did not fulfill this obligation. I am still awaiting a comprehensive report on the situation.”

Regarding whether this move sends a warning to those engaging in anti-party activities, Shivakumar asserted, “Discipline is crucial in any political party. We selected the candidate with everyone's consensus. We maintained consistent communication with all leaders. Based on feedback from our leaders, the Chief Minister made this decision.”

When asked about potential disciplinary actions against Minister for Housing and Waqf, Zameer Ahmad Khan, he responded, “I do not have any updates on that matter.”

On his travel plans to Chennai for election campaigning, he mentioned, “I will be heading to Chennai tonight, with an election campaign event scheduled for Wednesday.”

Addressing inquiries about reports of him holding individual meetings with MLAs, Shivakumar said, “In politics, it's essential to consult with our MLAs and strategize for the future. We guide them on what should be communicated and how to proceed. As the party President, it is my duty to address municipal and local body elections. If I don’t take this initiative, who will? MLAs are also submitting reports regarding the events in the Davanagere South and Bagalkot bye-elections.”

When asked about reports of him giving a direct warning to MLAs, he clarified, “There's nothing wrong with MLAs traveling to Delhi to seek ministerial roles. They are entitled to express their demands. However, they must adhere to party discipline. They are all our colleagues, and I have only advised them to maintain discipline. I have also suggested they exercise caution when responding to media inquiries.”

It’s noteworthy that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s Political Secretary, Naseer Ahmad, was dismissed from his role on Tuesday for allegedly undermining Congress candidate Samarth Shamanur during the recent Davanagere South bye-election.

Importantly, Naseer Ahmad is a close ally of CM Siddaramaiah. The Karnataka government issued a formal order regarding this decision on Tuesday morning.