Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Saturday said his resignation letter is permanently with interim Congress chief Sonia Gandhi amid speculation that there could be a possible rejig in Rajasthan Congress, ahead of next year’s polls.
Gehlot said, “My resignation is permanently with Sonia Gandhi. When Congress decides to change the chief minister, no one will get a hint. No deliberation will be done on it [changing CM]. Congress high command is independent to take decisions and I would appeal to everyone to not pay heed to rumours as it affects governance.”
“For the last 2-3 days, there was talk about changing the chief minister of Rajasthan. This is not right,” he added.
Gehlot’s statement comes after Congress leader Sachin Pilot met party president Sonia Gandhi on Thursday, sparking speculation about a change of guard in Rajasthan Congress leadership. This was Sachin Pilot’s second meeting with the party leadership in a fortnight.
Speaking about a possible change in CM candidate, Sachin Pilot had said, “That is exactly what we are discussing. Everything is included. The final decision will be taken by the party president. And those who are working on the ground, it is our responsibility to give proper feedback. The grassroots feedback about what the party can do in the next few weeks and months.”
Sachin Pilot had openly revolted against Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his government in July 2020, bringing the government to the brink of collapse. Later, Pilot dropped his rebellion after the party leadership assured that the grievances of the ‘rebel leaders’ would be heard by a three-member committee headed by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
