Himalaya Harbinger, National Bureau.
Former Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam faced expulsion from the party shortly after submitting his resignation letter, citing orchestrated actions. The decision, approved by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, came amidst complaints of indiscipline and anti-party statements by Nirupam. Expressing dissatisfaction with the party’s decision to allow the Shiv Sena (UBT) to claim the Mumbai North West Lok Sabha constituency, Nirupam’s resignation highlighted his aspirations for the seat.
In his resignation letter to Kharge, Nirupam stated, “I have finally decided to fulfill your much-awaited desire and hereby announce that I chose to resign from the primary membership of the All India Congress Committee.” He emphasized his disagreement with the party’s strategy regarding seat-sharing discussions within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance for the Lok Sabha elections, particularly criticizing the Maharashtra Congress leadership for conceding constituencies to the Shiv Sena.
Nirupam’s removal from the list of star campaigners on Wednesday further escalated tensions. Responding to the move, he launched a scathing attack, highlighting the party’s financial crisis and urging prioritization of resources to safeguard itself. He also criticized the acceptance of the Shiv Sena’s decisions, warning that it could lead to the Congress party’s demise.
A former Shiv Sainik turned Congress leader, Nirupam’s political journey included championing the cause of north Indian hawkers before joining the Congress. Despite winning the Mumbai North seat in 2009, he faced defeat in 2014 to BJP’s Gopal Shetty.
Simultaneously, Gourav Vallabh, a prominent Congress leader and spokesperson, announced his resignation from all party posts ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Adding to a growing list of recent departures from the party, Vallabh cited discomfort with the party’s direction.
In his resignation letter addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Vallabh expressed his disillusionment, stating, “I do not feel comfortable with the directionless way in which the Congress party is moving forward.” He highlighted his inability to align with certain party stances, particularly regarding economic policies and religious issues.
“As a professor of finance, I am unable to support the party’s stance on economic matters, which often involves criticizing wealth creators,” Vallabh remarked. He also expressed discontent with the party’s approach towards Hindu sentiments, stating, “The party’s silence on certain matters troubles me, as it seems to condone anti-Sanatana sentiments.”
Vallabh, known for his confrontational style, gained prominence after a viral exchange with BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra on a TV debate about the Indian economy. Despite his electoral attempts in Rajasthan and Jharkhand, Vallabh faced defeats in both instances.
In light of his resignation, the Congress party faces another blow, losing a vocal critic and representative. With both Nirupam’s expulsion and Vallabh’s resignation, the Congress leadership confronts challenges amidst internal dissent and shifting political dynamics.