Did Rajasthan HC Acquit Me? Gehlot Knew My Innocence: Shekhawat on Sanjivani Scam
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Synopsis
In a heated exchange, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat defends his innocence in the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam, accusing Ashok Gehlot of political manipulation. As the controversy escalates, the implications for both leaders and the victims of the scam raise critical questions about justice and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has vehemently defended his innocence in the Sanjivani scam.
- Ashok Gehlot is accused of politicizing the issue for personal gains.
- The Rajasthan High Court has cleared Shekhawat of any wrongdoing.
- Impacts of the scam have affected approximately 1.5 lakh individuals.
- The controversy reflects broader issues of political accountability in India.
Jaipur, June 27 (NationPress) Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has sharply criticized former Rajasthan Chief Minister and senior Congress figure Ashok Gehlot, accusing him of attempting to damage his reputation for political advantage concerning the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam.
Gehlot has reignited discussions surrounding the Sanjivani case, urging Union Minister Shekhawat to retract his defamation lawsuit and engage in discussions to secure justice for the scam's victims.
He claimed that if Union Minister Shekhawat is truly innocent, he should meet with the Sangharsh Samiti and the affected individuals to address the victims' issues.
Responding to Gehlot's comments, Union Minister Shekhawat stated, "Ashok Gehlot ji has dramatically failed in his efforts to tarnish my reputation by involving me in the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society issue to promote his son’s political career. The Rajasthan High Court has already cleared me, and Gehlot ji is well aware of my innocence."
He asserted that his only 'offense' was the steadfast support of the people in Jodhpur and the acknowledgment of his efforts, which he claimed has raised serious doubts not only about Gehlot's son but also about the former Chief Minister's political standing.
In response to Gehlot's recent criticisms, Union Minister Shekhawat remarked, "If maligning my name serves your agenda, then allow me to do you another favor."
He urged Gehlot to refrain from exploiting the suffering of Sanjivani victims for political retribution or to vent frustration over his son’s electoral loss.
"If he (Ashok Gehlot), as the head of the government, had made genuine efforts to aid the victims instead of framing me, they would have truly benefited," Shekhawat added.
The Union Minister continued, "If burning garlands in my honor aids you in regaining your relevance within your party following the BJP's resounding victory, I will regard it as yet another favor I’ve done for you."
The Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam is estimated to exceed Rs 950 crore, affecting numerous states, including Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The society commenced operations in Barmer in 2008 and swiftly expanded by establishing 237 branches.
It allegedly deceived approximately 1.5 lakh individuals by enticing them with promises of high returns and overseas trips.
Investors were transformed into agents and offered commissions, creating a multi-level chain system that attracted more victims into the scam.
The society distributed loans in a fraudulent and improper manner, with the majority of recipients being fictitious clients.
According to state government records, loans amounting to Rs 1,100 crore were disbursed.
The alleged mastermind behind the scam, Vikram Singh, has been apprehended by the Special Operations Group.
Union Minister Shekhawat's name has also been associated with the case, although he has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Union Minister Shekhawat has filed a defamation suit against Gehlot, accusing him of dragging his name and that of his late mother into the scandal.
In response, Gehlot welcomed the lawsuit, asserting that it would elevate public scrutiny of the scam.
He further claimed that 80% of the victims belonged to the Rajput community and expressed heartfelt distress over their plight.
Earlier on Thursday, Gehlot accused Union Minister Shekhawat and other BJP leaders of plotting to overthrow the previous Congress government in Rajasthan.
Speaking to reporters in Jodhpur, Gehlot alleged that senior BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, conspired to topple the previous Congress government and engaged in horse-trading by distributing substantial sums to MLAs.
"Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in the Narendra Modi-led BJP government plotted to topple the Rajasthan government, but they were unsuccessful. Ours was the only government in the country that they could not dismantle," the former Chief Minister stated.
"They overthrew governments in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, but could not do so in Rajasthan. These BJP individuals attempted to fracture our Congress party and distributed money to MLAs. I have evidence of this. The situation they created -- is this in accordance with the Constitution? Today, these individuals are celebrating Constitution Day," Gehlot added.
Point of View
The ongoing disputes between Union Minister Shekhawat and former Chief Minister Gehlot illuminate the complexities of political accountability in India. The allegations tied to the Sanjivani scam highlight the urgent need for transparent investigations and justice for the affected individuals. This situation serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities that public figures hold towards their constituents and the necessity for a fair political discourse.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam?
The Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam is a financial fraud involving the alleged misappropriation of over Rs 950 crore, affecting approximately 1.5 lakh investors across multiple states, including Rajasthan and Gujarat.
What role did Gajendra Singh Shekhawat play in the scam?
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat's name has been linked to the Sanjivani scam; however, he was acquitted by the Rajasthan High Court and has consistently denied any involvement.
What accusations did Ashok Gehlot make against Shekhawat?
Ashok Gehlot accused Shekhawat of attempting to deceive the public and exploit the situation for political gain, asserting that Shekhawat should engage with the victims of the scam.
What legal actions have been taken regarding the allegations?
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat filed a defamation lawsuit against Ashok Gehlot, claiming that Gehlot's comments have harmed his reputation and involved his late mother.
What is the significance of the Rajasthan High Court's acquittal?
The Rajasthan High Court's acquittal of Gajendra Singh Shekhawat serves to bolster his claims of innocence in the Sanjivani scam, adding a layer of legal authority to his defense against the accusations made by Gehlot.
