The Congress party in Bihar has taken decisive action against internal dissent by issuing show-cause notices to 43 of its leaders for alleged anti-party activities. This mass disciplinary action comes at a critical time when the party is grappling with its worst electoral performance in the state over the last four assembly elections.
Disciplinary Action Details
The state disciplinary committee of the Bihar Congress, headed by President Kapil Dev Prasad Yadav, has directed all 43 leaders to submit written clarifications before the committee by noon on November 21, 2025. The notice serves as an ultimatum for the leaders to explain their actions that have been deemed detrimental to the party's interests.
Among the prominent leaders who received notices are former minister Veena Shahi, AICC member Madhurendra Kumar Singh, and former MLC Ajay Kumar Singh. The widespread nature of the disciplinary action indicates significant internal turmoil within the state party unit.
Serious Consequences for Non-Compliance
Kapil Dev Prasad Yadav made it clear that there would be serious repercussions for those who fail to respond within the stipulated deadline. "If the reply is not received within stipulated time, the committee will be constrained to take strict action, including expulsion from the primary membership of the party for six years," Yadav stated.
The six-year expulsion threat represents one of the most severe disciplinary measures available to the party, highlighting the seriousness with which the Congress leadership is treating these alleged anti-party activities.
Context of Declining Electoral Performance
This disciplinary action unfolds against the backdrop of the Congress party's steadily declining presence in the Bihar legislative assembly. The party currently has only six MLAs, marking its worst performance in the last four state elections.
The electoral decline has been dramatic and consistent. In 2010, the party had eight MLAs, which surprisingly jumped to 27 MLAs in 2015, only to fall precipitously to 19 MLAs in 2020. The current tally of six MLAs represents a new low for the party in Bihar politics.
This significant drop in legislative representation has likely contributed to the heightened sensitivity toward internal discipline, as the party struggles to maintain its relevance in the state's political landscape.
Political Implications
The mass issuance of show-cause notices suggests that the Bihar Congress leadership is attempting to consolidate control and eliminate factionalism ahead of future electoral challenges. The timing of this action, coming after the poor electoral showing, indicates a possible overhaul strategy within the state unit.
Political observers note that such widespread disciplinary actions often precede major organizational changes within political parties. The Congress's effort to address internal dissent may be aimed at presenting a more united front to voters in preparation for upcoming elections.
The coming days will be crucial as the November 21 deadline approaches, potentially determining the political futures of all 43 leaders involved in this disciplinary proceeding.
