Former Congress MP Shakeel Ahmad Claims Threat To Life Following “Darpok” Remarks Against Rahul Gandhi

PATNA / NEW DELHI — A bitter public feud has erupted within the political landscape of Bihar as Shakeel Ahmad, a former Union Minister and veteran Congress leader, claimed on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, that his life is in danger. Ahmad alleged that the Congress national leadership has directed party workers to attack his residences in Patna and Madhubani.

The allegations come just days after Ahmad launched a stinging verbal assault on Rahul Gandhi, calling him a “coward” (darpok) and an “insecure” leader who promotes only sycophants.

1. The “Attack” Allegations

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Ahmad claimed he received inside information from former colleagues about a planned “orchestrated” assault.

• The Claim: Ahmad alleged that Congress workers were instructed to gather at his homes on Tuesday under the pretext of burning his effigy, only to escalate into a physical attack on his properties.
• The Evidence: He shared a screenshot of a purported WhatsApp group message calling on district and assembly-level presidents to protest against him. The message stated that “top leadership” had directed the protest due to his “baseless statements” against Rahul Gandhi.
• The Question: Ahmad directly tagged the high command in his post, asking: “Is this happening without Rahul ji’s orders?”

2. Backstory: The Scathing Critique

Shakeel Ahmad, who resigned from the Congress in November 2025 following the party’s dismal performance in the Bihar Assembly elections, has become one of Rahul Gandhi’s most vocal critics.

• “Darpok” & Insecure: On Saturday, Ahmad told PTI that Gandhi is “uncomfortable” in the presence of senior leaders with actual public standing and prefers “dictatorial” control over a “democratic” process.
• The Sidelining: He accused the Wayanad MP of deliberately promoting young leaders who have “no base” but are willing to sing his praises.
• Electoral Failure: Ahmad pointed to Gandhi’s loss in Amethi as proof of his failing leadership style, claiming he could not even protect his family’s traditional bastion.

3. Backlash from the Congress

The Congress party has reacted sharply to Ahmad’s departure and subsequent comments.

• “Jaichand” Jibe: Congress leader Manickam Tagore labeled Ahmad a “betrayer” and a “Jaichand,” suggesting his attacks were merely a bid for “TV time” and to “please new masters.”
• The Counter-Argument: Party loyalists argue that Ahmad’s resignation was timed to shift the blame for the Bihar election debacle, where the Congress won only six seats.

Who is Shakeel Ahmad?