Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has stepped in to calm the ongoing dispute within the party over the Kerala chief ministerial race, directing rival groups to stop public lobbying immediately.
His intervention comes as senior leaders continue positioning themselves for the top post if the UDF secures victory in the state. The escalating friction has reportedly alarmed the party high command, which fears it could damage unity at a critical time.
Sources said the AICC leadership has been informed about the internal unrest, with several senior figures raising concerns over a serious decline in party discipline.
Rahul is also said to have sought an update on the post-election situation from Deepa Dasmunsi, AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala, as efforts continue to control factional tensions and restore order within the organisation. Deepa reportedly briefed him on the current developments in the state unit.
According to sources, Rahul expressed displeasure over the conduct of certain senior leaders and felt the controversy was unnecessary.
He is also believed to have warned that strict action could follow if the situation continues, asking that this message be passed on to the Kerala leadership.
The Congress high command is said to be treating Kerala as a priority, believing that the open contest over the CM post has created an unfavourable public perception.
Meanwhile, veteran Congress leader V M Sudheeran weighed in, saying the party has an established tradition for selecting its legislative leader. He told reporters that the final decision would be taken by the high command after consulting state leaders and making its own assessment.
