Patna: Tensions within Bihar’s Grand Alliance spilled into open conflict on Wednesday night when a confrontation between Congress workers and party leaders turned violent at Patna airport. The incident occurred shortly after Congress state president Rajesh Ram, national in-charge Krishna Allavaru, and senior leader Shakeel Ahmed returned from Delhi following seat-sharing discussions.
Witnesses reported that several party workers from the Bikram constituency confronted the leaders upon their arrival, alleging corruption in ticket distribution. The protest soon descended into chaos, with slogans such as “Shakeel Ahmed chor hai” (“Shakeel Ahmed is a thief”) echoing through the terminal.
Manish, a known supporter of Pappu Yadav, was reportedly attacked by Congress workers amid the scuffle. According to eyewitnesses, the leaders attempted to leave the scene as tensions escalated. Shakeel Ahmed was briefly surrounded by an angry crowd before he managed to escape in his car.
Some protesting women alleged that “these leaders sold tickets for Rs 5 crore,” intensifying allegations of internal corruption and factionalism within the party.
Meanwhile, seat-sharing arrangements within the Grand Alliance appear to have reached a tentative conclusion. Congress is expected to contest 61 assembly seats, with candidates for 28 likely to be announced later today. Sources also suggest an agreement between RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav and VIP chief Mukesh Sahni for 18 seats, allowing Sahni’s party to field candidates accordingly.
Adding to the political intrigue, Bhojpuri actor Khesari Lal Yadav revealed that his wife’s ticket from the RJD had been confirmed but said she remained hesitant to contest, with only two days left for nominations.
