In response to outgoing Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s criticism of the BJP for delaying the announcement of their Chief Ministerial candidates, newly elected BJP MLA Kalicharan Saraf defended the party’s process, highlighting the Congress’ own historical delays. Saraf asserted that the BJP handles such matters democratically, while accusing the Congress of being dictatorial.
Saraf pointed out, “For the Congress to level such allegations at us is laughable. After the last Assembly elections in 2018, it took them 16 days to decide their chief minister. Unlike the BJP, which handles these matters in a democratic manner, they are dictatorial. Our party top brass has appointed observers for Rajasthan, who will come here, listen to the MLAs and tender their report to the high command which will eventually decide the CM.”
He further criticized the Congress, calling for the ED to raid the residences of leaders involved in corruption. Referring to the recent Income Tax Department raids that uncovered large sums of cash linked to Congress MP Dheeraj Sahu, Saraf stated, “Gehlot Saheb only makes statements while the Congress members are involved in corruption. The residences of all Congressmen involved in corruption should be raided by the ED.”
Ashok Gehlot had earlier criticized the BJP for the delay in announcing Chief Ministers for Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, stating that there is no discipline in the party. Responding to this, Saraf emphasized that the BJP’s approach is democratic, and observers appointed by the party will gather inputs from MLAs before the high command decides on the Chief Minister.
Union Minister and BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi also weighed in, asserting that the cash seizure from premises linked to Congress MP Dheeraj Sahu is the highest among corrupt individuals. She accused the Congress of spreading corruption and highlighted the substantial amount of cash recovered in the raids.
Meanwhile, the Congress responded to the allegations, stating that the party is not connected with the businesses of Dheeraj Sahu, and he should explain the matter. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media, emphasizing that only Dheeraj Sahu can explain the significant amounts of cash reportedly unearthed by the income-tax authorities from his properties. The political exchange continues to intensify as both parties exchange accusations and counter-accusations.
