Ashok Gehlot ‘projects’ himself as chief ministerial candidate

Jaipur: AICC general secretary Ashok Gehlot on Saturday projected himself as the Congress’s chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan. While taking to media persons in Udaipur, Gehlot categorically said when he had been the face of the party for 10 years, what was the need for a new face.

“I went to Punjab and Gujarat for the party’s work, but some people spread rumors that I have left Rajasthan. I will say this again: I am never away from you,” said Gehlot.

His statement came a day after former union minister Lalchand Kataria stirred a controversy by projecting Gehlot as the chief ministerial candidate. The latest developments are set to further strain the relationship between Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot and Gehlot.

Some media persons sought his reaction to Rajasthan incharge Avinash Pandey’s statement that a disciplinary action would be taken against Lalchand Kataria for project him as CM candidate. Gehlot first smiled and then said that Avinash Pandey must have said this in overenthusiasm.

“Those who can win should get tickets. Tickets should never be given based on who knows who,” said Gehlot.

When asked about Sachin Pilot, Gehlot said that the PCC chief was very close to him.

“When he (Sachin) was being considered for a ministerial birth, I recommended his name. I have recommended others also whenever I felt it was the right thing to do,” said Gehlot.

Gehlot was Rajasthan chief minister for two terms. The Congress high command has made it clear that the name of the chief minister would be finalized after the elections as was the tradition of the party.