Former Bihar Congress Chief Anil Sharma Quits, Party Calls It 'Cowardly Escape'

Accusing the Congress leadership of lacking democracy and autonomy, Anil Sharma criticised its dependence on Rahul Gandhi and his close aide KC Venugopal for decision-making.

New Delhi: The Congress suffered yet another setback as former Bihar president Anil Sharma resigned from the party just days ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, citing its "disastrous" alliance with the RJD.

Sharma, addressing a press conference, expressed dismay over the recent inclusion of former MP Rajesh Ranjan, alias Pappu Yadav, into the party.

Accusing the party leadership of lacking democracy and autonomy, Sharma criticised its dependence on Rahul Gandhi and his close aide KC Venugopal for decision-making. Sharma's departure marks the fourth instance of a former Bihar Congress president leaving the party in nearly a decade.

"Today, the party leadership is busy with a rally in Delhi where it is talking of the need to save democracy. Sadly, though, no democracy can be seen in the Congress where even our duly elected national president can take no step without consulting Rahul Gandhi or his close aide KC Venugopal," PTI quoted Sharma as saying.

Highlighting his long-standing association with the Congress since 1985, Sharma emphasised his dedication to the party and disclaimed any self-interest in seeking tickets or political positions. He also criticised the alliance with the RJD, attributing it to the Congress losing its credibility in the eyes of the public.

“I joined Congress in 1985. In nearly four decades, I held organisational posts twice, as state general secretary and then as state president. Never did I lobby for a ticket or a legislative council berth for myself. Nor have I explored possibilities in any other party before quitting the Congress,” PTI quoted Sharma as saying.

Sharma criticised the induction of Pappu Yadav into the party, suggesting it as a move driven by ulterior motives rather than considering deserving candidates. He expressed concern over the allocation of electoral tickets, alleging a disregard for candidates' potential to win.

In response to Sharma's resignation, the state Congress media cell chairman Rajesh Rathore issued a statement condemning his actions as an attempt to deflect blame and align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. He termed it as a "a cowardly escape" and find "an excuse for falling at the feet of Narendra Modi".

The resignation comes as the RJD is set to contest 26 out of 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, leaving nine for Congress and five for three Left parties.