Cabinet snub leaves Tanveer Sait upset

Mysuru: Congress legislator and former Karnataka minister Tanveer Sait has expressed strong dissatisfaction over being left out of the State Cabinet, saying repeated assurances regarding his induction had failed to materialise and that he would now decide his future political course after consulting party workers.

Addressing the media in Mysuru, Sait said he had patiently waited for an opportunity to return to the Cabinet but his hopes had once again been dashed. He emphasised that he neither travelled to New Delhi to seek support nor believed in lobbying for ministerial positions.

The veteran leader alleged that while the Congress high command had treated him fairly, some influential leaders within the Karnataka unit had prevented his inclusion in the ministry.

He said the truth behind the decision would emerge in due course.

Sait said the denial of a Cabinet berth had deprived Mysuru district of effective representation in the government. According to him, many loyal supporters have demanded that he resign as MLA in protest.

He, however, maintained that no decision would be taken without first consulting party workers.

Reflecting on recent developments within the Congress, Sait questioned the party’s disciplinary standards. He pointed out that strict action had been taken against certain leaders over isolated remarks, whereas others who openly criticised the party leadership had not faced similar consequences. Even so, he said he had chosen to remain a disciplined Congress worker despite his disappointment.

He further disclosed that he had previously declined appointments to government boards and corporations because he had been assured that he would be accommodated in the Cabinet after two-and-a-half years. He alleged that the assurance had now been broken.

Sait also recalled being told that his appointment as minister was not possible because the Chief Minister belonged to Mysuru district. Although disappointed, he said he had accepted that explanation at the time in the larger interest of the party. Calling for introspection within the political system, Sait said the manner in which decisions were being taken had caused deep disappointment among party workers.

The Cabinet expansion also triggered emotional reactions among his supporters. One supporter reportedly attempted suicide by consuming pesticide after learning that Sait had not been inducted into the ministry. The individual is undergoing treatment in hospital and is said to be out of danger.

Separately, supporters staged a protest by blocking traffic near Manipal Circle in Mysuru, demanding justice for the senior Congress leader. Police dispersed the demonstrators, detained several protesters and deployed additional security in sensitive areas to maintain law and order.

Sait reiterated that his immediate political future, including any decision regarding his Assembly membership, would be taken only after detailed consultations with his supporters and well-wishers.