Overview
- Former Congress leader Shakeel Ahmad alleged the party’s national leadership ordered assaults on his Patna and Madhubani residences under the cover of effigy-burning and posted a WhatsApp screenshot as evidence.
- Youth Congress activists protested in Patna and burned his effigy over his description of Rahul Gandhi as “darpok,” with state leaders demanding an apology and warning of bigger demonstrations outside his house.
- Police tightened security outside Ahmad’s Phulwari Sharif residence in Patna, with additional forces deployed as a precaution, according to state officials quoted in local reports.
- The Hindu reported that no physical attack occurred on January 27 at either of Ahmad’s properties despite his warnings.
- Congress figures, including Manickam Tagore, denounced Ahmad as a betrayer, BJP spokespersons amplified his criticism of Rahul Gandhi, and Husain Dalwai condemned threats while defending the party leader.