Bengaluru, April 24 -- Congress faces community backlash over action against Muslim leaders

A group of Islamic scholars (Ulemas or Ulamas) on Wednesday issued a sharp warning to the Congress, asserting that the party's political fortunes in Karnataka rest significantly on the support of the Muslim community.

The statement comes in the wake of disciplinary action taken against MLC Naseer Ahmed, Political Secretary to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and MLC Abdul Jabbar following the Davangere South bypoll.

Addressing a joint press conference, Maulana Mufti Sayeed Ibrahim, Zakirullah Saheb and Maulana Hazrat Salaluddin expressed strong displeasure over the developments. "Congress needs Muslims, but Muslims do not need Congress. Do not assume...