Tensions within the Congress party escalated dramatically on Thursday as a heated altercation broke out between two prominent leaders during an election campaign in Jammu’s Akhnoor’s Khour Town, adding a fresh twist of discord ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
The clash occurred in broad daylight as supporters of former Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand faction clashed with backers of Satish Sharma, son of deceased Congress MP Madan Lal Sharma over the coveted Jammu Lok Sabha seat.
According to eyewitness accounts and insider sources, the altercation erupted between the factions of Tara Chand and Madan Lal Sharma, who were both actively supporting Jammu MP candidate Raman Bhalla. The clash reportedly stemmed from longstanding rivalries and ambitions related to the upcoming Vidhan Sabha election.
It’s worth noting that this incident reflects a broader rift within the Congress ranks, particularly between factions associated with Tara Chand and the late Madan Lal Sharma, father of Satish Sharma. Past elections have witnessed setbacks for the party due to internal conflicts of this nature.
In response to the escalating tensions, senior Congress leaders have intervened, urging both groups to set aside personal differences and prioritise party unity to avoid potential losses in the forthcoming elections. The top leadership has reportedly conveyed the critical need for internal cohesion and teamwork to secure electoral process during ongoing election.
This clash again brings the challenges faced by the Congress party in managing internal dissent and consolidating support ahead of crucial elections.