Is Congress in Bihar in Turmoil Over Ticket Distribution?
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Synopsis
The Congress party is embroiled in chaos over ticket distribution in Bihar for the 2025 Assembly elections. Leaders voice dissent, and protests erupt, questioning the selection process. Can they unite before it’s too late?
Key Takeaways
- Internal turmoil in Congress Bihar over ticket distribution.
- Protests and dissent from both grassroots and senior leaders.
- Tariq Anwar criticizes the selection process.
- Concerns about the future of the party's alliance with RJD.
- Factionalism and unresolved disputes threaten electoral unity.
Patna, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Congress party is currently experiencing significant internal strife in Bihar regarding the distribution of tickets for the forthcoming 2025 Assembly elections.
Following the announcement of 48 candidates, dissent has surged — manifesting in protests from grassroots members and senior leaders openly questioning the selection criteria.
The turmoil escalated earlier this week when Bihar Congress in-charge Krishna Allavaru faced aggression from frustrated party workers at Patna airport.
Although he escaped without injury, his supporters were reportedly attacked.
Footage from Sadakat Ashram, the party’s state headquarters, has surfaced, showcasing heated disputes and disorder among disillusioned workers who accused the leadership of selling tickets.
Amid this escalating unrest, Congress MP from Katihar, Tariq Anwar, has openly condemned the party’s ticket distribution process, labeling it as illogical and unfair.
Anwar pointed to the case of Gajanand Shahi, also known as Munna Shahi, who lost the 2020 Barbigha Assembly seat by a mere 113 votes.
“Munna Shahi didn’t lose the election; he was made to lose by the administration and government. Yet, his ticket was revoked this time. This is astonishing,” Anwar remarked.
He further questioned the rationale behind re-nominating candidates who lost the 2020 elections by margins of 28,000 to 32,000 votes while dropping formidable contenders like Munna Shahi.
Many insiders within Congress express that the frustration is also aimed at Krishna Allavaru, who they claim is making unilateral choices without consulting senior leaders in the state.
This discontent could jeopardize the Congress’s long-held partnership with the RJD, which is a crucial ally in the Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan).
Critics highlight Allavaru’s limited political background — he previously worked in corporate roles before being appointed to oversee Bihar — as a contributing factor to the current unrest.
“The central leadership only seems to be heeding Allavaru. His management style might significantly harm the party in this election,” said a senior Congress member, wishing to remain anonymous.
With factionalism intensifying and unresolved seat-sharing conflicts, the Congress party faces a formidable challenge in presenting a united front in Bihar as the campaign intensifies.
Point of View
The Congress party's internal discord in Bihar raises critical questions about leadership and decision-making. With significant elections on the horizon, the party must address its internal conflicts to avoid jeopardizing its alliances and electoral prospects.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the unrest in Congress Bihar?
The unrest was triggered by the announcement of ticket distribution for the 2025 Assembly elections, leading to protests and criticisms from both grassroots members and senior leaders.
Who is Tariq Anwar and what did he say?
Tariq Anwar is a Congress MP from Katihar who criticized the party's ticket distribution as illogical, highlighting the case of Munna Shahi, who was denied a ticket despite a narrow loss in the previous election.
What does the internal dissent indicate for Congress?
The internal dissent indicates a potential rift within the party that could affect their alliances and overall performance in the upcoming elections if not addressed promptly.
