New Delhi buzzed with political discourse on Thursday as Congress MP Mohammad Javed sharply countered former party leader Shakeel Ahmad’s remarks on Rahul Gandhi. Ahmad had questioned Gandhi’s leadership, but Javed dismissed it outright, proclaiming Gandhi as a capable leader whom the nation desperately needs.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Javed emphasized that party expulsions are never arbitrary. ‘Shakeel Ahmad’s statement is completely wrong,’ he asserted. ‘Leaders leave the Congress on their own accord. We harbor no grudges against those who depart.’ This rebuttal underscores the internal dynamics within the grand old party as it navigates leadership transitions.
Shifting focus to the upcoming Union Budget, Javed expressed cautious optimism. He urged the government to prioritize public woes, particularly the unemployment crisis plaguing the youth. ‘Employment opportunities have vanished across the country,’ he lamented. ‘The budget must address this to alleviate the distress of our young population.’
Javed criticized the central government for favoring cronies over citizens. ‘Instead of pandering to selected allies, resolve the people’s problems,’ he said. While hopeful for a people-centric budget, he noted its true impact would be revealed in due time.
On alliance negotiations in Tamil Nadu between DMK and Congress, Javed downplayed tensions. ‘Coalition partners always seek maximum seats to form governments effectively,’ he explained. ‘This is standard in every state. Discussions are ongoing, and a favorable decision is imminent.’
Turning fire on the Bihar government, Javed painted a grim picture. ‘Bihar is in shambles,’ he charged. ‘Women and daughters feel unsafe. The ruling dispensation has forgotten every promise made before elections.’ He specifically targeted the BJP, linking rising crimes against women to an increase in its MLAs. ‘As BJP lawmakers grow, so do atrocities on women,’ he alleged. ‘The government must act decisively to ensure public safety.’
Javed’s statements reflect Congress’s strategy to highlight governance failures ahead of key electoral battles, positioning Rahul Gandhi as a viable alternative.