Ranchi, Sept 20: The Jharkhand unit of the Congress is facing questions over its handling of disciplinary proceedings against party leaders, with allegations that suspensions are being revoked within a short period and, in some cases, without a detailed explanation from the concerned leaders.
The developments have also raised concerns within the ruling alliance, particularly after some leaders whose suspensions were withdrawn resumed making statements critical of alliance partners and the state government.
Two Congress leaders, Abhilash Sahu and Amarendra Singh, were recently suspended following alleged objectionable remarks about Muslims during a Facebook Live session. The action came after the two reportedly got caught in a road blockade and subsequently made comments criticising members of the Muslim community.
Sahu’s suspension was revoked within around 15 days, according to the report, despite discussions within the party’s disciplinary committee about keeping him suspended for at least two months.
The suspension of Singh, who faced similar allegations, has not yet been revoked. The party is now expected to reconsider the cases of both leaders.
Suspension of Yogendra Sahu revoked
A separate controversy has emerged over former minister Yogendra Sahu, whose suspension was initially ordered for three years over statements that were seen as creating difficulties for the alliance.
His suspension was revoked after around three months.
Following his return, Sahu has reportedly intensified his criticism of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and the alliance government. His statements have also triggered dissatisfaction among some Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leaders in Hazaribagh, with pressure reportedly being mounted within the party over its alliance with the Congress.
Amid the renewed controversy, the Congress has issued a show-cause notice to Sahu. Further action is expected after the party examines his response.
Concerns over disciplinary process
The developments have led to questions about consistency in the Congress’ disciplinary mechanism. Party workers and alliance partners are closely watching how the cases are handled, particularly where similar allegations have resulted in different disciplinary outcomes.
The Congress’ disciplinary committee is headed by senior leader Rameshwar Oraon, who has so far maintained silence on the latest developments.
The episodes come at a time when the Congress and JMM are working together in the Jharkhand government, making public statements by leaders of either party a potentially sensitive issue for the alliance.
The party’s handling of disciplinary cases is therefore likely to remain under scrutiny as it weighs internal disciplinary considerations against the need to maintain coordination within the governing alliance.
