Bihar polls: Congress to launch campaign after Chhath Puja; set to address ticket distribution allegations

NEW DELHI: Congress will launch its Bihar election campaign immediately after Chhath Puja , intensifying efforts for the INDIA bloc with Rahul Gandhi leading the charge on October 29 and 30. Senior leaders Priyanka Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge will also tour key constituencies across the state.

Speaking to reporters Sunday, senior party leader KC Venugopal emphasised the momentum gained from the August Voter Adhikar Yatra, stating, “Our campaign will kick off right after Chhath Puja, with Rahul Gandhi’s visit on October 29 and 30. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge will also be actively touring Bihar to connect with voters.”

The party is focused on fine-tuning campaign strategies and resolving internal challenges, particularly addressing allegations from some workers about ticket distribution irregularities.

Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot acknowledged this issue but urged restraint, saying, “In every election, many aspire for tickets and get disappointed when those hopes aren’t fulfilled. I appeal to all party workers to hold back grievances until the elections conclude," as quoted by PTI.

Gehlot underscored the significance of the Bihar polls, calling them a “crucial contest” under national scrutiny. “The entire nation is watching Bihar, eager to see the arrogant BJP-led NDA defeated. This is a historic opportunity for us, and party workers must realize the pivotal role they play,” he said.

The Election Commission has scheduled the Bihar Assembly elections across 243 seats in two phases — November 6 and November 11 — with vote counting slated for November 14, setting the stage for a fiercely contested battle.