Tensions within the Madhubani district unit of the Congress erupted into a full-blown physical confrontation on Tuesday. Party workers clashed violently inside the district office, even as senior leaders, including state president Rajesh Ram and former legislature party leader Shakeel Ahmad Khan, were present at the location.
Review Meeting Descends Into Chaos
The incident took place during a review meeting called to analyze the party's dismal performance in the recently concluded assembly elections. The Congress had failed to secure a single seat in the Madhubani district, a result that had left the cadre frustrated and angry.
What was intended as a session for introspection and organizational strengthening quickly turned chaotic. Heated arguments broke out over several contentious issues. The primary points of conflict were alleged irregularities in ticket distribution and the assignment of responsibility for the embarrassing defeat. These verbal disputes soon escalated into a physical fight.
Fists, Flagpoles, and Furniture Fly
Eyewitness accounts described a scene of utter disorder. Workers belonging to rival factions traded blows, using whatever objects were at hand. Lathis, batons, chairs, and even Congress flagpoles were reportedly used in the scuffle. The immediate trigger was accusations of bungling in the allocation of election tickets, raised by disgruntled aspirants who felt sidelined. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported from the clash. The situation was eventually brought under control after senior party members intervened to separate the fighting groups.
Leaders Appeal for Unity After Violence
Addressing the gathering once calm was restored, senior leader Shakeel Ahmad Khan expressed deep concern over the unsavory incident. He urged party workers to raise their grievances through appropriate internal forums instead of resorting to violence or vandalism. In a symbolic gesture aimed at restoring peace and discipline, Rajesh Ram, Shakeel Ahmad Khan, and a large number of party workers later marched to Station Chowk. There, they garlanded the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and appealed to all members to remain united and disciplined.
This public brawl has laid bare the deep internal rifts plaguing the district Congress unit. The party has been facing sustained criticism over leadership decisions made during the election campaign. Key areas of discontent include the controversial process of ticket allocation and the management of the alliance with partners like the RJD. The poor electoral outcome has intensified frustration among grassroots workers, many of whom openly accuse the leadership of favoritism and mismanagement. The Madhubani episode starkly highlights the serious organizational challenges the Congress must overcome as it attempts to regroup and prepare for future electoral battles.
