Manickam Tagore Criticises Shakeel Ahmad for Remarks Against Rahul Gandhi, Calls Him a Betrayer

Manickam Tagore has condemned Shakeel Ahmad's remarks about Rahul Gandhi, labelling him a betrayer. He emphasised the importance of unity within the Congress party during challenging times.

Congress leader Manickam Tagore criticised former colleague Shakeel Ahmad for his remarks against Rahul Gandhi, labelling him a traitor akin to Jaichand. Ahmad, once a Union minister and Congress general secretary, had called Gandhi a coward and insecure, accusing him of favouring young leaders who praise him. Tagore expressed disappointment over the betrayal, emphasising the need for unity within Congress.

Ahmad's departure from Congress followed the 2025 Bihar assembly elections. He served as an MLA three times between 1985 and 2004 and was elected as an MP twice from Bihar in 1998 and 2004. Ahmad accused Gandhi of being uncomfortable around senior leaders with public influence, claiming he only promotes those without a strong base.

Accusations Against Rahul Gandhi

Ahmad described Gandhi as dictatorial and non-democratic, alleging that he disregards senior colleagues' opinions. He believes Gandhi is confident that Congress will not fall below the second position nationally. Ahmad also reflected on the 2022 Congress presidential election, stating his initial support for Shashi Tharoor but noted the influence of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in backing Mallikarjun Kharge.

Tagore highlighted that attacks on the Congress president also insult Mallikarjun Kharge, a prominent Dalit leader in Indian politics. He remarked that such betrayals are not about ideology but about gaining media attention and pleasing new allies. Tagore referred to these individuals as part of the "2026 batch of Jayachands," including some ministers in the Modi government and others who have switched sides.

Historical Context and Political Dynamics

The term "Jaichand" is rooted in northern Indian folklore, symbolising betrayal due to the legend of Jaichand supporting foreign invaders against Prithviraj Chavan. Tagore stated that while yatras expose hate on one side, they also reveal betrayal on the other. He stressed that people are observing these actions, and history will remember those who genuinely worked for India versus those who sought power.

Tagore mentioned that during a time when Congress requires solidarity, voices like Ahmad's choose to criticise leaders like Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi's efforts include walking over 4,000 kilometres to combat hate and promote love, alongside a 6,000-kilometre Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra aimed at reconnecting India with justice and dignity.

Tagore concluded by asserting that these criticisms are not driven by genuine concern or ideological differences but rather by a desire for relevance and media exposure. He reiterated that this pattern is not new but represents a fresh group of defectors seeking personal gain over party unity.

With inputs from PTI