Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) Minister for Waqf and Housing Zameer Ahmad Khan addressed the media on Tuesday, stating that he does not view himself as the ultimate leader of the Muslim community, thereby rejecting ongoing speculation regarding his political aspirations amidst the developments of the Davanagere South bypoll.

It is noteworthy that the Congress party has relieved MLC Naseer Ahmad from his role as Chief Minister’s Political Advisor and accepted the resignation of K. Abdul Jabbar, the State Minority Department President, due to insufficient support for the Congress candidate in Davanagere South. Party insiders have indicated that Minister Zameer may have played a role in these shifts, leading to calls for decisive action against him from certain factions within the party.

Zameer, who is regarded as a close ally of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, responded to rumors suggesting he had sought to incite division among minority leaders to establish himself as a prominent figure within the community.

In his remarks, he emphasized, “I have never aimed to take on such a position. I am merely a servant dedicated to the people and a devoted member of the Congress party. Seeking a ticket for Muslims is not inappropriate.”

While addressing reporters in Bengaluru, he stated that he had been forthright and had shared his opinions during a KPCC meeting. He clarified that he did not specifically propose MLC K. Abdul Jabbar's name for the Davanagere South constituency but suggested that the ticket could be awarded to any of the seven Muslim candidates vying for it.

He further explained that Jabbar had already submitted his resignation by the time these events unfolded and that he was not aware of the circumstances surrounding Naseer Ahmad's removal from the Chief Minister’s secretary position.

Zameer expressed his intention to meet with the Chief Minister to gain clarity on these recent changes. “I was informed that certain decisions arose because I did not visit Davanagere. The Chief Minister has summoned me, and I am en route to discuss.”

In response to accusations of engaging in anti-party behavior, he questioned if anyone had explicitly named him. He acknowledged existing dissatisfaction among local Muslims concerning the denial of a ticket for the Davanagere South seat, but asserted that the issue had been addressed and the party’s candidate has been confirmed. “We are optimistic about our chances of winning. I am simply a humble party worker,” he remarked.

Zameer further clarified that discussions were transparent. He referred to a meeting held by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar before the elections, where all local and minority leaders from Davanagere were present.

“I openly stated that, just as we secured a ticket for a Muslim candidate in Shiggaon, the party should contemplate granting a similar opportunity in Davanagere. I recommended that the ticket be awarded to any of the seven contenders,” he articulated.

Zameer also claimed he had assured party leadership of a successful outcome. “I even mentioned that if I fail to deliver a win, I would resign. Our discussions were not secretive. While it was initially appropriate to consider Jabbar, the ultimate decision rested with the high command. When it became evident that he might not be the optimal choice, we proposed offering the ticket to another candidate,” he detailed.

Regarding reports of internal strife, Zameer noted that MLC Jabbar had shown disappointment after Minister S.S. Mallikarjun, the father of the Congress candidate, reportedly chose to visit a neighboring house instead of his.

“He felt slighted and was hesitant to engage in campaigning. He cited health issues while addressing the media,” Zameer added.

“I had encouraged him to be actively involved in party activities, but he expressed that he was perturbed by the incident,” he remarked.

On the subject of MLC Naseer Ahmad, Zameer stated he had been given tasks in Bagalkot. “He had expressed a desire to travel to Davanagere but was directed to concentrate on his assigned duties. He had informed the Chief Minister that he would visit later,” he said.

Stressing the unity within the party, Zameer stated that all minority leaders are collaborating effectively. “If anyone suggests conspiracy or betrayal, they ought to identify those implicated. I was appointed by the high command as a star campaigner for Kerala and acted according to the Chief Minister’s guidance. I made a brief visit to Davanagere, met local leaders, and spoke to the media before returning to my designated responsibilities,” he explained.

Reiterating his position, he said, “Initially, there was dissatisfaction, but it has been resolved. We are confident of securing a 100 percent victory in Davanagere. I have never claimed to be a leader; I am merely a public servant.”

He also dismissed claims that he was lobbying for a significant ministerial role. “It is natural for anyone to aspire for a ministerial position. I had such aspirations and I have attained it. I am uncertain about who the accusations are aimed at. Those making such allegations should specify the individuals,” he stated.

Zameer concluded by affirming that he has met his commitments, including campaign duties. “I was assigned roles in Kerala until April 7, but returned earlier as instructed by the Chief Minister. After obtaining permission from party leadership, I visited Davanagere,” he noted.

Addressing the rumors surrounding a conspiracy against him, he remarked that such occurrences are typical in politics.

“Everyone makes their own efforts. Let them. If others secure ministerial positions, I will be pleased for them,” he concluded.