New Delhi : In anticipation of the forthcoming state legislative assembly elections, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed his desire to step down from the position of Chief Minister, citing that the post appears reluctant to release him.
Gehlot’s statements about the Chief Minister’s role are seen as a veiled response to his rival Sachin Pilot’s ambitions. In 2020, Pilot openly rebelled against Gehlot and led a faction of Congress MLAs to camp near Delhi.
Speaking at a press briefing in Delhi, Gehlot recounted an incident in which a female supporter expressed her wish to see him become the Chief Minister of Rajasthan for the fourth time. Gehlot responded by saying, “I told her that I want to leave the Chief Minister’s post, but this post is not letting me go.”
He once again implied his claim to the top position, suggesting that the Congress leadership must have seen qualities in him, given that they selected him to lead the state on three occasions.
These remarks are particularly significant in the lead-up to the critical state assembly elections scheduled for November 25. Despite efforts by the Congress to present a united front, political experts believe that the issue involving Sachin Pilot has not been fully resolved.
When questioned about the delay in announcing Congress candidates in Rajasthan, Gehlot explained that decisions are being made smoothly and that only the BJP appears dissatisfied.
He stated, “They are upset because we are not having internal disputes. All decisions are being made after taking everyone’s opinions into account. I am also in discussions with Sachin Pilot’s supporters and making decisions in their favor. The decision-making process is proceeding smoothly, and that’s why only the BJP is unhappy.”
The elections for the 200-member Rajasthan legislative assembly are set to take place on November 25. The date was initially scheduled for November 23 but was changed following requests from state parties made to the Election Commission.
