Viral Audio Puts Zameer Ahmed In Spot: Did Congress Leader Back Rival In Davanagere South Byelection?

A fresh controversy has erupted within the Karnataka Congress after audio clips allegedly featuring senior party leader Zameer Ahmed Khan surfaced on social media, triggering allegations of anti-party activity during the Davanagere South byelection.

The recordings, shared by an X account named "Cockroach Party", purportedly capture a conversation between Zameer Ahmed and Davanagere Congress functionary Mohammad Siraj. In the clips, the voices are heard discussing voter turnout, campaign efforts and voting patterns, with portions of the conversation allegedly suggesting support for a non-Congress candidate linked to the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI).

One of the most controversial segments of the audio features a voice identified as Zameer Ahmed allegedly advising party workers not to bring reluctant Muslim voters to polling booths. According to the viral clip, the speaker claims such voters could end up supporting the Congress candidate and instead suggests allowing them to vote for an independent candidate associated with SDPI.

The audio has reignited discussions surrounding Zameer Ahmed's reported dissatisfaction over candidate selection in the Davanagere South byelection. Earlier, the Congress leader had publicly acknowledged his disappointment over not securing the party ticket for candidates he had recommended.

"I had given the names of seven Muslim leaders. It is true that I was unhappy for not getting the Davanagere ticket," Zameer Ahmed had said previously, a remark that is now being revisited in light of the viral recordings.

The controversy comes at a sensitive time for the Congress leader, who is reportedly seeking a ministerial berth in the Karnataka government. The timing of the leak has intensified discussions within party circles over loyalty, discipline and internal factionalism.

Parts of the alleged conversation appear to revolve around polling-day coordination and campaign monitoring. In the audio, the speaker identified as Zameer Ahmed is heard questioning Siraj about his availability during voting hours and the effectiveness of booth-level mobilisation efforts.

The discussion later shifts to voter turnout and campaign performance. In another segment, the two voices discuss polling trends, with references being made to a "cooker" symbol, which observers believe may indicate support for a specific candidate or electoral campaign during the byelection.

Despite the widespread circulation of the audio clips, Zameer Ahmed has not issued any public clarification or response. The authenticity of the recordings has also not been independently verified.

As the clips continue to circulate online, the controversy has added a new layer of intrigue to the Davanagere South byelection. With questions being raised about internal unity and campaign strategy, Congress leaders may face increasing pressure to address the allegations and clarify the circumstances surrounding the viral recordings.