One day after his dismissal from the position of Mumbai Youth Congress chief, Zeeshan Siddique, a Congress MLA and the son of Baba Siddique, voiced allegations of discrimination within the party. He contended that during a Bharat Jodo Yatra, an individual affiliated with Rahul Gandhi’s circle purportedly suggested that he shed weight if he wished to meet the Wayanad MP.
While acknowledging Rahul Gandhi as a commendable leader who diligently fulfills his responsibilities and considering Mallikarjun Kharge akin to a fatherly figure, Siddique expressed dismay over what he perceives as constraints even on Kharge's authority due to the influence of individuals surrounding Rahul Gandhi. He went on to assert that this circle appears to be undermining the party's integrity, insinuating that they may have ulterior motives aimed at the Congress's detriment.
Recalling a specific incident during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Siddique disclosed that a person close to Rahul Gandhi purportedly remarked, "First, lose 10 kg, then you can meet Rahul ji." Expressing indignation over what he perceived as body-shaming, Siddique, who holds the esteemed positions of an MLA and the Mumbai Youth Congress chief, questioned the propriety of such conduct.
Moreover, Siddique accused Rahul Gandhi's team of harboring corruption and criticized the alleged discourteous behavior prevalent among its members, suggesting a dissonance between their actions and the principles Gandhi espouses.
Earlier this month, Siddique's father, Baba Siddique, aligned himself with the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) after departing from the Congress. Despite his loyalty to the Congress, Zeeshan Siddique admitted to contemplating alternative options due to what he perceives as the party's diminishing regard for minorities and individuals like himself, indicating a potential departure from the party in light of prevailing circumstances.
Expressing bewilderment regarding the circumstances surrounding his removal from the post of Mumbai Youth Congress chief, Siddique lamented the lack of communication or engagement from senior party leadership, underscoring a sense of disconnect and alienation within the party hierarchy.
