From Shaking Indira’s Rule to Criticizing Rahul: Veteran Bihar Congressman Labels Him ‘Timid’

Patna, Bihar: History has often shown that political sparks from Bihar can shake Delhi’s corridors of power. After Indira Gandhi, it is now Rahul Gandhi facing dissent emanating from Bihar. Former Union Minister Dr. Shakeel Ahmed, hailing from a veteran Congress family, recently resigned from the party and publicly labeled Rahul Gandhi “timid” and “incapable,” signaling unrest in what was once a bastion of loyalty.

A Legacy of Three Generations in Congress
Dr. Shakeel Ahmed comes from a lineage deeply rooted in Congress politics. His grandfather, Ahmad Ghafoor, was elected to the Bihar Assembly in 1937. His father, Shakoor Ahmed, served as MLA five times between 1952 and 1977. Shakeel Ahmed himself won five assembly elections after 1985, served as an MP, and held ministerial positions. Despite this decades-long dedication, Shakeel Ahmed left the party after the 2025 state assembly elections, citing dissatisfaction with the leadership. His recent remarks against Rahul Gandhi carry weight given his legacy.

Criticism of Rahul Gandhi’s Leadership
Shakeel Ahmed has criticized Rahul Gandhi’s grasp of electoral strategy and political issues. During the “Voter Rights Campaign” in Bihar, Rahul Gandhi attempted to make the SIR issue a focal point for 17 days, rallying the public with slogans like “Vote Thieves, Leave the Seat.” However, the campaign failed to resonate with voters, as no complaints or support emerged for the SIR issue.

Internal Democracy Under Scrutiny
Shakeel Ahmed and other dissenting leaders allege that Rahul Gandhi has undermined internal democracy in Congress. After resigning as party president following electoral defeats, he was expected to work for the organization wholeheartedly. Instead, party control remains concentrated in his hands. While Mallikarjun Kharge was appointed as Congress president, critics claim he functions mostly as a figurehead, with real decisions made by Rahul Gandhi.

Growing Opposition at District Levels in Bihar
The dissent is now resonating even at the district level. Congress leaders in Bihar, organizing under the “Save MGNREGA Movement,” are openly questioning Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. During a recent gathering in Darbhanga, local leader Ram Narayan accused Rahul Gandhi of failing to address issues such as ticket trading. District leaders raised slogans against Krishna Allawaru, Bihar’s party in-charge, and state president Rajesh Ram, reflecting deep frustration within the party.

Dr. Shakeel Ahmed’s strong words have revived debates on Rahul Gandhi’s leadership capabilities, highlighting persistent dissatisfaction among veteran Congress workers in Bihar.