In a lighthearted comment that has generated discussions amid the ongoing political tussle in Rajasthan Congress, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot playfully alluded to his intention to leave the position of Chief Minister but suggested that the “post doesn’t let me go.”
During a media interaction in Delhi, Gehlot shared an anecdote in which a female supporter expressed her desire for him to become Chief Minister for the fourth time. In response, Gehlot jokingly remarked that he would like to relinquish the Chief Minister’s role, but the post appears to keep him in place.
While delivered in a light-hearted tone, Gehlot’s comments bear significance within the context of the internal power struggle within the Rajasthan Congress. The state party is divided into factions led by Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy, Sachin Pilot, who had staged a rebellion in 2020 that nearly toppled the Congress government before the central leadership intervened.
Gehlot further emphasized that his appointment as Chief Minister thrice by the party high command suggests there must be something in him. He expressed willingness to accept any decision taken by the party leadership.
As the crucial November 25 election approaches, both factions within the party have aimed to present a united front. However, occasional verbal sparring and differences between the two camps continue to surface.
Responding to queries about the delay in announcing the Congress’s candidate list, Gehlot dismissed concerns, stating that only the opposition BJP seemed perturbed. He explained that the decision-making process involves considering everyone’s opinions, including those from Sachin Pilot’s camp, to ensure smooth and acceptable choices.
Addressing the possibility of replacing sitting legislators with alternative candidates, Gehlot stated that the party would make such changes if it found better options.
The upcoming Rajasthan election is expected to be a head-to-head contest between the BJP and Congress, with internal factionalism posing a significant challenge for both parties. In a bid to avoid derailing the party’s prospects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ruled out projecting any leader as the face of the BJP campaign. Notable leaders in the state’s BJP include former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Earlier this year, Ashok Gehlot had alluded to differences within the BJP and suggested that Vasundhara Raje had assisted in preserving his government during the mutiny led by Sachin Pilot. These remarks had prompted a sharp response from Raje, who suggested that Gehlot had insulted her due to his anxiety regarding the rebellion in his party.
In his recent statement, Gehlot sought to alleviate any concern arising from his prior remarks and expressed that Vasundhara Raje should not suffer due to his comments.
Sources By Agencies
