Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, seizing the opportunity presented by alleged internal disputes within the Karnataka Congress government, launched a veiled attack on his own party's internal adversaries. Addressing the media at the Pradesh Congress Headquarters, Gehlot articulated his views on several critical issues, ranging from the controversial 'two-and-a-half-year chief minister' formula to the performance of the Rajasthan government and the impartiality of the Election Commission. He explicitly stated that certain individuals within the party are leveraging Rahul Gandhi's name to spread rumors, thereby damaging the party's image and internal cohesion.
Slamming the 'Two-and-a-Half-Year CM Formula'
Gehlot highlighted a recurring pattern where some individuals, invoking Rahul Gandhi's name, propagate rumors about being designated for the Chief Minister's post. He specifically referenced the 'two-and-a-half-year chief minister' formula, a topic that previously surfaced in Chhattisgarh and is now reportedly circulating in Karnataka. Gehlot emphasized that such unsubstantiated claims undermine the party's strength and negatively impact the morale of its cadres. He asserted that these discussions are mere speculations lacking any concrete foundation. He questioned why, if such an agreement truly existed, it wouldn't be confirmed by the concerned leaders themselves, dismissing them as "hawa hawai" (airy-fairy) talks that only serve to create confusion and division within the party ranks.
Asserting Karnataka Congress Unity
Dismissing any notion of discord within the Karnataka Congress government, Gehlot declared that there was no conflict. He viewed the sight of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister sharing a breakfast table as an "auspicious sign. " Gehlot used an interesting analogy, stating that "news is made of divorce, not of love and affection. " He clarified that there was no 'divorce' happening in Karnataka, but rather 'love and affection,' signifying the unity of the Congress party. He underscored the party's solidarity under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, reiterating that claims about a 'two-and-a-half-year' formula are purely speculative and without verifiable truth. He challenged those making such claims to directly ask the Karnataka Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister for confirmation, stating that only then could such assertions be taken seriously.
Sharp Criticism of the Rajasthan Government
After addressing internal party matters, former Chief Minister Gehlot turned his attention to the current BJP government in Rajasthan, launching a scathing attack. He labeled the state government as "naakara nikammi" (useless and incompetent). Gehlot alleged that law and order in Rajasthan have completely collapsed. He cited the continuous road accidents and suicides occurring in the state, asserting that the government has failed to address these serious issues effectively. He stated that the public is grappling with these problems, yet the government. Isn't taking concrete steps, leading to an atmosphere of anarchy in the state. Gehlot stressed that the state government has proven utterly incapable of fulfilling its responsibilities, making life difficult for the common people.
Serious Concerns Over Election Commission's Impartiality
Gehlot also voiced a profound concern regarding the democratic fabric of the nation. He described the Election Commission's conduct as "biased," calling it a major issue. He expressed apprehension that the Election Commission's behavior is inappropriate, questioning how democracy can survive if it aligns with the government. Gehlot stated that the situation in the country is grave, and democracy faces a significant challenge. He even raised doubts about whether elections would be held in the future, and if so, in what form, hinting at a scenario akin to Russia, where the ruling party secures 98% of the votes. He credited Dr. Ambedkar's constitution for preserving democracy in India and characterized the current environment as "very dangerous. " He emphasized that questioning the impartiality of the Election Commission isn't a good sign for democracy and poses a serious concern for the country's future.
Ashok Gehlot's statements clearly indicate his serious concern over indiscipline and rumor-mongering within the party, while simultaneously, by emphasizing the unity of the Congress in Karnataka, he expressed confidence in the party's top leadership. His attacks on the current Rajasthan government and the questions raised about the Election Commission's impartiality highlight his deep concern for the country's political and democratic state. His remarks come at a time when the political atmosphere in the country. Is highly charged, and preparations for upcoming elections in various states are underway.
