Rajasthan political crisis: Top developments

NEW DELHI: The political crisis in Rajasthan Congress intensified on Monday, with both chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his estranged deputy Sachin Pilot hardening their stands. While Gehlot claimed the support of over 100 MLAs and got the backing of the Congress legislature party, Sachin Pilot continued to keep the party guessing even as he dared the chief minister to parade the MLAs in front of the governor.

“To discuss political situation another Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meet will be held here (Jaipur) at 10 am tomorrow. We request Sachin Pilot and all MLAs to come, we’ll also give them in writing. We’ve requested them to come and discuss the situation,” Congress leader Randeep S Surjewala said.

With a majority of 109 for the Congress government in Rajasthan under Ashok Gehlot, all our MLAs gave their support letter. They have failed BJP’s attempts,” he added.

BTB, which has two members in Rajasthan assembly, to abstain in case of a floor test. It’s a setback to Gehlot as party was said to be supporting him.

The Congress has again called for a Congress Legislative Party meet on Tuesday and urged Pilot to attend the meet.

“To discuss political situation another Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meet will be held here at 10 am tomorrow. We request Sachin Pilot and all MLAs to come, we’ll also give them in writing. They’re requested to come & discuss how to strengthen Rajasthan and serve the 8 crore people together. If there are some differences with someone then they should say that that with an open mind. Sonia Gandhi & Rahul Gandhi are ready to listen to everyone&find solution,” party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said.

Following the CLP meeting, Congress MLAs on Monday holed themselves up in a resort near Jaipur, where they expressed support for Rajasthan chief minister and only indirectly referred to Sachin Pilot, whose rebellion threatens his government.