Patna, January 27: In a sharp political escalation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress of intimidating leaders who dare to speak the truth, following alleged threats to former Congress leader Shakeel Ahmad. Bihar’s Health Minister Mangal Pandey labeled Congress as inherently undemocratic, drawing parallels to the autocratic rule of kings and emperors.
Speaking to reporters in Patna, Pandey criticized the party’s internal dynamics. ‘Congress operates like a monarchy where no leader can raise their voice without facing repercussions,’ he said. He pointed to Shakeel Ahmad’s recent ordeal as a prime example, asserting that the party has a long history of silencing dissenters who challenge the status quo.
Minister Dilip Jaiswal echoed these sentiments, highlighting Ahmad’s bold criticisms of Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. ‘Shakeel spoke out against a leadership that has only sunk the party further. Many others are questioning Rahul Gandhi for good reason,’ Jaiswal remarked, defending Ahmad’s decision to voice his concerns publicly.
JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan Prasad urged Ahmad to prioritize his security amid the rising tensions. ‘Congress appears desperate and frustrated these days, which could lead to anything,’ Prasad warned, advising caution in the current climate.
The controversy erupted after Shakeel Ahmad, who recently quit Congress, claimed his life was under threat. He accused the Youth Congress of plotting attacks on his residences in Patna and Madhubani, following his scathing remarks calling Rahul Gandhi a ‘coward’ and ‘insecure’ politician. Ahmad alleged that official orders from Delhi directed effigy burnings and aggressive protests against him.
This incident underscores deepening rifts within the opposition Congress, especially in Bihar, where BJP and its allies are capitalizing on the narrative of internal dysfunction. As political tempers flare ahead of upcoming elections, Ahmad’s case has become a flashpoint in the ongoing war of words between the parties. Observers note that such public spats could further erode Congress’s credibility among voters seeking strong, unified leadership.
