BENGALURU, April 22 -- The Congress in Karnataka is facing an uncomfortable question that extends beyond a single by-election: how to enforce discipline within its ranks without unsettling the coalition of voters that helped deliver it a decisive mandate in 2023.

The immediate controversy is the result of the action taken against MLC K Abdul Jabbar, who was suspended, and Naseer Ahmed, who was removed as political secretary to chief minister Siddaramaiah. Both decisions were linked to allegations of anti-party activity during the April 9 bypolls in Davanagere South. Yet the reaction they have provoked suggests the issue is not confined to alleged indiscipline, but to how different sections of the party interpret fairness, representation ...