Rahul Gandhi Kota Visit: BJP Leader Rajendra Rathore Slams Political Tourism

The political atmosphere in Rajasthan has intensified following the announcement of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's proposed student dialogue program in Kota, the state's prominent coaching hub. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Leader of Opposition, Rajendra Rathore, has launched a scathing attack on the visit, labeling it as nothing more than political tourism. Rathore expressed concerns that the timing of the visit is inappropriate as students are currently immersed in their exam preparations, and such political events could cause unnecessary disturbance to their academic focus.

Allegations of Past Failures Under Congress Rule

During his interaction with the media, Rajendra Rathore didn't mince words while criticizing the previous Congress administration. He pointed out that during the Congress tenure, the state witnessed a staggering 19 paper leak incidents, which severely jeopardized the future of thousands of aspiring candidates. Rathore questioned why Rahul Gandhi didn't show concern for the students at that time, while he also brought up the instance of Congress leader Sachin Pilot visiting the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) and raising questions about recruitment processes, suggesting internal dissatisfaction within the then-ruling party regarding transparency.

Rathore further alleged that the recruitment processes under the Congress government were heavily influenced by favoritism, with preferred individuals being appointed to key positions. He took a sarcastic jab at the RPSC controversies, mentioning that individuals arrested in connection with these cases had reportedly confessed to paying money to secure memberships within the commission. This, according to Rathore, highlights the systemic corruption that prevailed during the previous regime.

BJP Government's Performance and Exam Integrity

Defending the current Bhajanlal Sharma-led BJP government, Rajendra Rathore highlighted the administration's achievements in maintaining the integrity of the examination system. He stated that under the BJP's tenure, 410 examinations have been successfully conducted without a single instance of cancellation or paper leak. This track record, he argued, has restored the confidence of candidates in the state's recruitment machinery. He emphasized that the strict actions taken against those involved in previous paper leak cases serve as a testament to the current government's commitment to transparency and justice.

Regarding the upcoming student dialogue, Rathore claimed that the event is purely for political gain. He alleged that the Congress party is making arrangements to bring in students from outside Kota and even hiring individuals to fill the venue. He warned that such activities by Rahul Gandhi could potentially tarnish the reputation of Kota, which is recognized nationwide as a premier center for education and coaching.

Response to Hospital Tragedies in Kota and Bikaner

The former Health Minister also addressed the tragic incidents involving the deaths of pregnant women in hospitals in Kota and Bikaner. Expressing deep sorrow over these occurrences, Rathore termed them as inhumane. He informed that the state government has already constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the matter thoroughly. Rathore shared that he has personally discussed the issue with the Chief Minister and the Health Minister, ensuring that a strict stance is being taken, while he asserted that anyone found guilty, regardless of their official rank or position, will face severe legal consequences for their negligence.