Gandhi’s ‘Not Only Seen Together’ Sparks Political Banter: Gehlot and Pilot’s ‘Pehle Aap’ Moment Takes Center Stage

As Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader, arrived in Jaipur for a day-long election campaign in the upcoming state polls, both Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot were observed jointly welcoming him. Addressing the speculation surrounding a potential reconciliation between Gehlot and Pilot, Rahul Gandhi asserted, “We are not just standing together; we are united and will remain united. The Congress is poised to secure a sweeping victory in Rajasthan.” A video shared by the news agency ANI captured the moment when Gehlot and Pilot flanked Rahul Gandhi, engaging in a courteous ‘pehle aap’ (after you) exchange as they gestured for him to lead. Govind Singh Dotasra, the Chief of the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee, was also present during the reception.

Rahul Gandhi’s declaration of unity follows closely on the heels of a noteworthy social media post by Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday. Gehlot shared a snapshot from a party meeting, prominently featuring both himself and Sachin Pilot in attendance. Alongside the photo, Gehlot captioned, “Together, winning, again,” signaling a clear indication that any past differences between Gehlot and Pilot have been set aside in favor of a united front.

The Gehlot versus Pilot saga dates back to 2020, marked by a significant rift when Sachin Pilot, then serving as the deputy chief minister, led a revolt against Ashok Gehlot, garnering support from 18 MLAs. The fallout resulted in Pilot’s removal from the deputy post, leaving their professional relationship strained. Gehlot, during this turbulent period, publicly referred to Pilot as a ‘traitor’ and ‘nikamma’ (incompetent). Adding to the tension, earlier this year, Sachin Pilot embarked on an anti-corruption yatra, targeting the Ashok Gehlot government.

Prior to Rahul Gandhi’s statement, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal emphatically declared the party’s unity in Rajasthan. Dismissing the narrative suggesting disunity within the Congress ranks in the state, Venugopal affirmed, “I can confirm that our party remains as united as ever. Our leaders stand together with a shared goal of defeating the BJP and reclaiming power in Rajasthan. The prevailing public sentiment is in our favor, and there is no cause for concern. The Congress is steadfast in its journey towards regaining power in Rajasthan.”