The recent Congress rally in Buxar, Bihar, led by party president Mallikarjun Kharge, has caused a stir in political circles. The Buxar District Congress President, Manoj Kumar Pandey, has been removed from his post due to the unexpectedly low turnout at the rally.
Patna: The Congress party in Bihar has removed Buxar District President Manoj Kumar Pandey from his position. He is accused of failing to garner a sufficient crowd for the rally addressed by party president Mallikarjun Kharge. However, Pandey denies the allegations, attributing the empty seats not to a lack of attendance, but to the intense heat.
He explained that the temperature was extremely high that day, forcing people to seek shade. Pandey also claimed that a significant crowd was present at the District Congress Committee office and asserted that he possesses video evidence to support his claim.
Empty Seats: Scorching Heat or Strategic Failure?
Pandey maintains that the temperature exceeded 42 degrees Celsius on the day of the rally, and there was insufficient fan provision at the venue. "People sought the shade of nearby trees instead of sitting in the sun, hence the empty chairs. We made every effort," he stated. He reiterated his claim of a large crowd at the nearby Congress office, supported by video footage.
Why the Stern Action by the Party?
The Congress party's statement accuses Pandey of inactivity and irregularities in the event's organization. Party sources suggest the rally was crucial for the preparation of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, and the underwhelming turnout is a cause for concern. An unnamed senior Congress official stated that such incidents can weaken the party's grassroots support, necessitating b action.
Kharge's Speech and the Stage Setting
Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the rally for approximately 50 minutes, covering various topics ranging from the freedom struggle to contemporary politics, while criticizing central government policies. Sources indicate that Kharge himself appeared slightly uncomfortable witnessing the empty rows of chairs on stage, though he did not mention it publicly.
Political analysts view this incident as a reflection of the Congress party's weak grassroots organization. Senior political commentator Ajit Mishra states that in a state like Bihar, where caste equations and local leadership play significant roles, such a failure reflects the public's apathy towards the leadership.
Resentment Among Local Workers
Pandey's suspension has sparked discontent within the Buxar District Congress. Several local workers believe the decision was hasty and not entirely justified. Some workers even suggested that the party leadership should have investigated local issues and ground realities first.
Opposition parties have seized the opportunity to criticize the Congress. BJP spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan sarcastically remarked, "Congress rallies now only feature leaders, not the public. They should understand that social media activity doesn't win public trust."
Speculation is rife regarding Pandey's replacement as Buxar District Congress President. Party sources suggest the high command will soon announce a new leader capable of strengthening the organization. Meanwhile, Pandey plans to appeal to the party leadership to reconsider his suspension.
