Former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot Condemns BJP Government's 'Two Years vs Five Years' Assembly Debate Proposal
In a sharp critique of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration in Rajasthan, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday lambasted the government for proposing what he termed an unprecedented and "illogical" Assembly debate centered on the theme of "Two years versus five years." Speaking to reporters within the state Assembly premises, Gehlot asserted that no government since India's Independence has ever initiated such a discussion, branding the move as completely absurd.
Gehlot Labels Debate Proposal as 'Foolish' and 'Absurd'
"Since Independence, no government made such a foolish statement. It was a completely absurd move, and that is why the government had to retract it," Gehlot declared emphatically. He elaborated that neither the central government nor any state administration has ever framed a parliamentary debate along the lines of comparing two years of governance against a full five-year term. The veteran Congress leader alleged that the BJP-led state government initially agreed to this debate format but later altered its stance, opting instead to discuss a "report." Gehlot dismissed this shift as "ridiculous" and called for an open discussion focusing specifically on the situation after two years of BJP rule in Rajasthan.
"The chief minister should seek feedback from the people on his government's performance," Gehlot insisted, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
Gehlot Questions Credit for Development Projects and Defends Opposition's Role
Turning his attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Ajmer to inaugurate various projects, including new colleges, Gehlot made a significant claim. He alleged that 18 out of the 19 colleges slated for inauguration were actually sanctioned during the tenure of the previous Congress government. "The foundation for these institutions was laid by our government. The present government is merely taking the credit," he asserted, accusing the BJP of appropriating developmental achievements.
Furthermore, Gehlot responded to Prime Minister Modi's earlier remarks about an "Opposition-free India," vehemently defending the necessity of a robust opposition in a democracy. "Without an Opposition, there is no meaning. Democratic institutions are working under pressure, and healthy traditions are being weakened," he alleged, highlighting concerns over the erosion of democratic norms.
Gehlot also expressed strong objection to comments made by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju regarding Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. He contended that such statements "vitiate the atmosphere" and detrimentally impact constructive democratic dialogue.
Amidst Heated Exchanges, Gehlot's Remarks Highlight Broader Political Tensions
Gehlot's pointed comments emerged against a backdrop of intense and sharp exchanges within the Rajasthan state Assembly. These debates have extensively covered critical issues such as governance efficacy, legislative procedures, and overarching national political matters. The former chief minister's critique not only addresses specific incidents but also reflects deeper political rivalries and ideological clashes between the Congress and BJP in Rajasthan.
The proposed "Two years versus five years" debate, according to Gehlot, symbolizes a departure from established parliamentary traditions and raises questions about the government's approach to legislative discourse. His allegations regarding project credits and defense of oppositional roles further amplify ongoing tensions, positioning these remarks within a larger narrative of political accountability and democratic integrity in India.
