Bengaluru: Amid growing speculation of big changes in the state Congress unit and govt following announcement of election results to four states and a Union territory on May 4, chief minister Siddaramaiah held a meeting with confidants late Wednesday at his official residence. Sources say discussions focused on internal party concerns, including the churn in Muslim leadership highlighted during the Davanagere South bypoll. Members reportedly urged the CM to take a firm position on a possible cabinet reshuffle and to counter attempts of a change in CM. Those present, often described as the CM’s ‘kitchen cabinet’, included social welfare minister HC Mahadevappa, housing minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan, public works department minister Satish Jarkiholi, and urban development minister Byrathi Suresh, among others. Confirming the meeting, Jarkiholi said multiple issues were discussed. “We asked the CM to intervene and sort out groupism among Muslim functionaries,” said Jarkiholi said. “It does not augur well for the party, and we made it clear that he needs to take a strong stand on the issue.” He admitted political developments were likely, especially on the issue of a cabinet reshuffle which he called “long-pending”. “We expect some changes in the party and govt. There is a strong chance that it may happen soon after the election results on May 4,” he said. Meanwhile, Zameer Ahmed Khan said he will discuss with leaders of the community the anger over Congress’ decision not to give the Davanagere South bypoll ticket to a Muslim and the removal of MLCs Abdul Jabbar and Naseer Ahmed from their posts.“I understand that our religious leaders are unhappy. The issue must be sorted out through discussion. I will meet with them soon after Friday prayers,” said Khan. Zameer was allegedly targeted by the other Muslim functionaries within Congress, but he dismissed accusations of being a victim of a conspiracy as claimed by Ulemas. “No one has accused me of indulging in anti-party activity during the Davanagere South bypoll,” he said
