Mangaluru: Health and family welfare minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Saturday clarified that disciplinary action within the Congress has no connection with the Davanagere South assembly bypoll.Speaking to reporters, Rao dismissed speculation linking internal party decisions to electoral considerations. “No one can predict election results. I am not an astrologer to say who will win. Disciplinary actions are purely related to anti-party activities and not the byelection,” he said.He also termed rumours about the possible removal of housing minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan from the cabinet as baseless. “Zameer Ahmed Khan is a senior leader working loyally for the party. Such matters are discussed within the party framework. Few people may be spreading unnecessary rumours,” he added.Responding to Congress leader Rajanna’s allegation that supporters of chief minister Siddaramaiah were being targeted, Rao said he was not aware of such claims. “Rajanna should be asked about his statement. There is no question of targeting anyone in the Congress. Party discipline applies to all, and action is taken only if there is a mistake,” he said, adding that the party remains united across communities.On local body elections, Rao said the process has already begun. “As per the high court’s direction, zilla panchayat elections must be conducted before June, for which preparations are under way,” he said.
