Tagore Slams Shakeel Ahmad’s Remarks, Says Think First

January 27, 2026

Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Tuesday strongly rebuked former party leader Shakeel Ahmad, saying he should think before making baseless remarks about senior leader Rahul Gandhi and the party. Tagore’s comments came amid a growing political spat triggered by Ahmad’s recent criticism of Congress leadership.

 What Sparked the Row?

Shakeel Ahmad, a three-time MLA and former Union minister from Bihar who quit the Congress last year, drew widespread attention after calling Rahul Gandhi a “darpok” (coward) and an “insecure” leader, alleging a lack of internal democracy in the party. Ahmad also shared claims that his life was under threat and alleged plans to burn his effigies in response to his remarks.

 Tagore’s Rebuke: Think Before You Speak

Responding to Ahmad’s comments, Tagore criticized him for what he described as reckless and baseless attacks on Gandhi — particularly at a time when the Congress is seeking unity. Tagore labelled Ahmad’s criticism as betrayal and questioned the motives behind the remarks, urging him to consider the consequences before making such statements publicly.

In his rebuttal on social media platform X, Tagore also implied that such remarks do not serve constructive debate but instead seek attention and political relevance.

 Political Context & Reactions

The controversy has gained traction nationally, with political opponents, including the BJP, seizing on Ahmad’s statements to criticise Congress leadership. BJP spokespersons echoed Ahmad’s claims to paint Rahul Gandhi as an insecure and dictatorial figure, intensifying the political fallout.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders have stood by Gandhi and defended the party’s internal processes, dismissing Ahmad’s remarks as motivated by personal grievances following his exit from the party.

 What This Means for Party Unity

Tagore’s comments highlight ongoing internal tensions and the challenge of maintaining unity within the Congress amid public criticisms by former members. His admonition to “think once before making baseless remarks” underscores the party’s emphasis on solidarity and caution against narratives that could weaken its political positioning.