Rajasthan CM Gehlot ‘open to working with Pilot’; Says high command to decide on roles

JAIPUR: Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot expressed his willingness to work together with Sachin Pilot, stating, “If he is in the party, then why won’t we work together?” Gehlot made this statement when asked by the media about his confidence in Pilot’s cooperation.

In response to further inquiries about Pilot’s role, Gehlot emphasized that it is determined by the high command and not by rank. He stated, “Rank doesn’t matter to me. I have been the Chief Minister thrice, and I have spared no effort in my work. Today, it is my duty to ensure the government’s success, as desired by the high command. I have implemented numerous schemes for the public, and I believe the public will support the government once again.”

During the media interaction, Gehlot reiterated his indifference towards holding any specific position, saying, “I have mentioned multiple times that the post does not matter to me. I have served as CM three times and as a Union Minister. Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi have placed great trust in me. Being CM thrice is significant, and being a Union Minister thrice counts. It is my duty to follow the high command’s instructions, work for the party’s victory, and that is what I am doing. I have left no stone unturned in devising and implementing plans that cater to all sections of society. Regardless of whether Narendra Modi or Amit Shah visit Rajasthan, the public is aware of the reality.”

Following a four-hour-long meeting at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Monday night, an agreement was reached to resolve the ongoing tussle within the Rajasthan Congress. Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot were brought together at Kharge’s house, where their political grievances were addressed. Subsequently, a separate meeting was held with both leaders, and later, General Secretary KC Venugopal introduced them to the media, announcing their joint participation in the upcoming elections.

However, despite the political ceasefire announced yesterday, numerous questions remain unanswered. The three demands put forth by Pilot and his specific political role have not been made public yet. After the meeting, Venugopal mentioned that both leaders would stand united in the Rajasthan assembly elections scheduled for this year, leaving the final decision to the high command. Congress maintains a strong presence in Rajasthan.

The details of the formula agreed upon during the extensive meeting to resolve the Pilot issue have not been disclosed. With the pilot’s ultimatum expiring on May 30, it is believed that the high command has arrived at a decisive solution, providing concrete assurance to Pilot.

Gehlot and Pilot, accompanied by KC Venugopal, emerged from the late-night meeting at Kharge’s residence, wearing smiles on their faces. While Venugopal addressed the media, Gehlot and Pilot remained silent, continuing to smile. The three leaders then returned to Kharge’s house.

Although KC Venugopal has claimed reconciliation, Sachin Pilot has not issued any statement yet. The statement from Pilot is eagerly awaited, as the Congress President holds the authority to address all three of Pilot’s demands and political concerns. By keeping the reconciliation formula undisclosed, it has been made clear that the final decision lies with the high command.