Karnataka Bypolls: Congress Rebel Sayed Azeempeer Khadri to Withdraw Nomination on October 30

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced that Sayed Azeempeer Khadri, a rebel Congress leader, will withdraw his independent candidacy from Shiggaon. Khadri had unexpectedly filed his nomination on the last day for the November 13 assembly bypoll. Concerns arose that his candidacy might affect Congress candidate Yasir Ahmed Khan Pathan's chances. Shivakumar assured that Khadri would retract his nomination on October 30 and be given a suitable position within the party.

Shivakumar mentioned that Khadri had discussed his issues with him and was promised a suitable role in the party. "I cannot disclose the promises made in view of the Model Code of Conduct. He will withdraw his nomination and work for the party. Khadri is with us," Shivakumar stated. The deputy chief minister praised Khadri as an honest individual dedicated to Congress's secular values.

Efforts to Convince Khadri

Minister Zameer Ahmed, MLA Nazeer Ahmed, and Ismail Thamatagara were instrumental in persuading Khadri to step back from the election. Shivakumar acknowledged their efforts, noting that they played a crucial role in convincing Khadri to support the party's official candidate. Despite initial resistance, Shivakumar emphasized the importance of consulting local leaders and Khadri's supporters to ensure unity within the party.

When questioned about Khadri's reluctance to withdraw, Shivakumar responded, "We need to take the opinion of all local leaders. There is no dissidence now. We need to talk to his followers too and we will invite all of them to Bengaluru." This approach aims to consolidate support for the Congress candidate in Shiggaon.

Political Landscape in Karnataka

The BJP has nominated Bharath Bommai, son of former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, for Shiggaon. The bypolls on November 13 will also include Channapatna and Sandur constituencies. Vote counting is scheduled for November 23. In the Karnataka Assembly, excluding the speaker, Congress holds 133 seats out of 224. The BJP and Janata Dal Secular have 65 and 18 seats respectively, with smaller parties and Independents occupying the rest.

Shivakumar expressed regret that Khadri was not given a ticket in previous elections but assured that his contributions would not be overlooked. He reiterated that Khadri would receive appropriate recognition within the party structure. This move is seen as part of Congress's strategy to maintain internal harmony and strengthen its position ahead of upcoming elections.

The decision to withdraw Khadri's nomination reflects Congress's efforts to present a united front in Shiggaon. By addressing internal disagreements and promising roles within the party, Congress aims to enhance its electoral prospects against strong competition from BJP candidates like Bharath Bommai.