Ahead of DK Shivakumar swearing-in, audio clip threatens to roil Congress leader Zameer Khan’s Dy CM chances

Bengaluru: An audio clip has surfaced in Karnataka that could threaten senior Congress leader BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan’s much-speculated chances of being inducted as deputy chief minister in the DK Shivakumar-led government.

Khan, an MLA from Bengaluru and a prominent Muslim leader, had narrowly escaped disciplinary action over alleged anti-party activities during the April 9 Davanagere South bypoll. He had been away campaigning in Kerala and joined the campaign in Davanagere South only on the final day, amid criticism that he was not actively backing the Congress candidate.

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In the alleged audio clip, which surfaced on Monday, Khan and his party colleague Mohammed Siraj are purportedly heard discussing plans to ensure the defeat of Congress candidate Samarth Shamanur (27).

Muslim leaders, who hold significant influence in Davanagere South, were reportedly upset after the Congress overlooked their demand for a ticket and instead fielded a member of local leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa’s family in the bypoll.

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In the brief conversation, Siraj is allegedly heard saying that the SDPI’s pressure cooker election symbol was visible everywhere and that some Congress workers were distributing money. Khan allegedly responds by saying Muslims should not be forced to come out to vote, as they traditionally support the Congress. Those who do come out should either vote for the SDPI or an Independent candidate, Siraj is allegedly told.

Both Khan and Siraj denied having any such conversation, calling the audio clip doctored and aimed at maligning their image.

As the clip went viral, Khan posted a picture on X claiming that heads of several mutts had met Siddaramaiah earlier in the day and urged him to consider appointing Khan as deputy chief minister.