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Rahul Gandhi: Former Congress leader and veteran Bihar politician Shakeel Ahmad has said he fears for his safety, days after his public criticism of Rahul Gandhi triggered sharp reactions within political circles. Ahmad claims he has received information suggesting that protests could be used as a cover to target his residences, raising concerns about personal security and political intolerance.

Allegations of Threats Following Public Criticism

Ahmad, who served three terms as an MLA and two terms as a Member of Parliament from Bihar, stated on Tuesday that he had been alerted by former colleagues about alleged plans against him. According to his claim, senior figures within the Congress had issued informal directions to stage demonstrations outside his homes in Patna and Madhubani, potentially escalating into violence under the pretext of protest activities such as effigy burning.

Describing the situation as alarming, Ahmad said such actions would undermine democratic values and freedom of expression. He voiced his concerns publicly on social media, emphasizing that disagreement within a political party should not lead to intimidation or threats.

Social Media Posts Cited as Evidence

In a separate message, Ahmad shared a screenshot of what he described as a WhatsApp group conversation. The image appeared to show participants calling for effigy burning in response to his remarks about Rahul Gandhi. Referring to the message, Ahmad said it confirmed the warnings he had received earlier from trusted sources within the party.

He further suggested that the alleged actions could not be taking place without the knowledge or approval of senior leadership. Drawing on a local saying from Bihar, Ahmad remarked that former associates had come forward at a critical moment to alert him to the situation.

Security Measures Stepped Up in Patna

Following these developments, local authorities have reportedly increased security outside Ahmad’s residence in the Phulwari Sharif area of Patna. While officials have not issued a detailed statement, the heightened presence is seen as a precautionary step in response to the former legislator’s claims.

Ahmad has not indicated whether he has filed a formal complaint, but his public statements suggest he is seeking attention to the matter to ensure his safety and accountability within the political system.

Background to the Controversy

The dispute traces back to comments Ahmad made last Saturday, when he openly criticized Rahul Gandhi’s leadership style. In his remarks, Ahmad described the Congress leader as insecure and lacking confidence, arguing that such traits had affected internal party dynamics.

Ahmad alleged that younger leaders who consistently praise the leadership are promoted, while senior figures with independent political standing are sidelined. He also claimed that decision-making within the party is limited to a small group, leaving experienced leaders marginalized.

Claims of Internal Divisions Within Congress

Expanding on his criticism, Ahmad said the party’s functioning has become increasingly centralized. According to him, dissenting voices are discouraged, and leaders who question decisions risk being ignored or pushed aside. He argued that this approach has widened internal divisions and weakened the organization at a time when broader consensus is needed.

Ahmad left the Congress after the Bihar Assembly elections last year, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s internal culture and leadership approach.

BJP Responds to the Episode

The controversy has drawn reactions from rival parties as well. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla commented that the episode reflected deeper discontent within the Congress. He claimed that criticism from former insiders highlighted a lack of acceptance of Rahul Gandhi’s leadership even among party members.

Poonawalla further alleged that several leaders had exited the Congress due to what he described as insecurity at the top, though these claims remain a matter of political debate.

Ongoing Political Fallout

As the situation develops, Ahmad’s allegations have added to the broader conversation about internal democracy and dissent within political parties. Whether the claims lead to formal investigations or remain part of the ongoing political exchange is yet to be seen