Jaisalmer: Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra on Friday demanded accountability and a thorough probe into the fire at the Barmer refinery, stating that four days had passed but authorities had still not clarified how the blaze started, who was responsible, and what supervision was in place.
Allegations of Negligence and Political Targeting
Speaking to reporters during a Congress programme in Barmer, Dotasra alleged that instead of fixing responsibility for the incident, action was taken against a minor for sharing photos and videos after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit was cancelled, and the local station house officer was suspended. He said accountability should extend to the highest levels, adding that the Chief Minister and the Petroleum Minister should be held responsible for failing in their duties. Dotasra demanded the removal of Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, alleging he was not performing his responsibilities.
Conspiracy Allegations and Fuel Price Concerns
Dotasra termed the refinery fire a "major conspiracy" and reiterated the need for an impartial investigation to identify those behind it. He pointed out that the refinery's inauguration was scheduled months ago, and questioned how a fire broke out just hours before the Prime Minister was scheduled to attend a programme there. He asked whether the "double engine" government was working for the public or was focused on political targeting.
Dotasra linked the issue to fuel availability and prices, claiming that if the refinery had been operational earlier, there would have been no shortage of petrol and diesel amid global tensions. He further alleged that fuel prices could rise by ₹10 to ₹20 per litre after the West Bengal elections, warning of a fresh inflationary surge.
Criticism of Centre and Local Elections
The Congress chief accused the Centre of using the Nari Shakti Vandan Bill as a pretext to push delimitation in an arbitrary manner and weaken the federal structure. He claimed the BJP was trying to create a political system that would keep it in power for decades.
On Rajasthan's Panchayati Raj elections, Dotasra said a survey and report were complete but were not being implemented because the state government did not want elections. He alleged the BJP feared losing local body polls and was delaying the process. He claimed Congress would win upcoming local elections and asserted the party would return to power in Rajasthan in 2028 and defeat the BJP nationally in 2029.
Dotasra further criticised Prime Minister Modi for not responding to remarks by US President Donald Trump on India.
