'I Don't Want To Be CM But...': Ashok Gehlot's Creates Ripples In Rajasthan Before Polls

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, in the run-up to the upcoming state legislative assembly elections, has expressed his desire to relinquish the chief minister's post on Thursday, 19th October. He stated that while he wishes to step down, the post seems to keep him in place.

Gehlot's comments about the CM post are perceived as a response to his political rival Sachin Pilot's ambitions. In 2020, Pilot openly rebelled against Gehlot, leading a faction of Congress MLAs to camp near Delhi.

During a press briefing in Delhi, Gehlot shared an incident where a female supporter expressed her desire to see him serve as Rajasthan CM for the fourth time. In response, he said, "I told her that I want to leave the Chief Minister's post, but this post is not letting me go."

The Rajasthan CM further added, "After Sonia Gandhi ji became (Congress) president, the first decision she took was to make me the chief minister. I was not the CM candidate but she selected me as the CM...I want to leave the CM post but this post is not leaving me and it won't leave me also," as quoted by Times Now.

Gehlot also seemed to stake his claim to the top job once again, emphasizing that the Congress leadership had recognized his abilities by choosing him to lead the state three times.

His statements are of particular importance in the lead-up to the Rajasthan state assembly elections scheduled for 25th November. Despite efforts by the Congress to present a united front, many political experts believe that the Sachin Pilot issue has not been fully resolved.

Gehlot also made a controversial comment on Vasundhara Raje and emphasized that the BJP should not punish her because of him. "She should not be punished because of me. This would be injustice to her" He further also stated that candidate selection for Rajasthan elections by politcial parties should depend on winnability.

When questioned about the delay in announcing Congress candidates in Rajasthan, Gehlot explained that decisions were being made methodically, with due consideration for all opinions.

He suggested that only the BJP was unhappy with the process, stating, "They are upset because we are not fighting. All the decisions are being made after considering everyone's opinions. I am also in talks with Sachin Pilot's supporters as well, making decisions in their favor. The decision-making process is proceeding smoothly. That's why only the BJP is not happy."

The Rajasthan legislative assembly, comprising 200 members, is scheduled for elections on 25th November, following a date change from 23rd November due to requests from state parties.