Is 50% Quota for Youth in Local Body Elections a Game Changer for Congress? Dotasra's Insights

Jaipur, June 23 (NationPress) Pradesh Congress Committee chief Govind Singh Dotasra on Monday criticized the Rajasthan government's performance, asserting, “No meaningful work has been accomplished.” He further remarked that the Congress's decision to implement 50% reservation for individuals under the age of 50 in local body elections is a transformative initiative aimed at fostering robust, young grassroots leadership.

Questioning the Rajasthan government regarding the delay in conducting local body elections, he pointed out that although five years have passed, there has been no action taken.

Here are some highlights from the exclusive interview:

IANS: You’ve declared a 50% reservation for those under 50. What is the rationale behind this initiative?

Dotasra: This decision is in line with the Udaipur Resolution endorsed by Congress leadership. Both Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, along with other senior leaders, have emphasized the necessity of empowering the youth. We aim to build the party from the grassroots.

Youth will now take on leadership roles at the mandal, block, and district levels, participating in decision-making processes, including ticket distribution. We are executing this in 400 blocks and 2,200 mandals, ensuring 50% representation for those under 50.

IANS: Recently, rivals Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot were seen together at an event. What’s your perspective on this?

Dotasra: The Congress is a party that upholds virtues and values. They gathered to honor the 25th death anniversary of Sachin Pilot's father. In line with these principles, party leaders from Delhi and Rajasthan united in Dausa to pay their respects. Sachin Pilot’s invitation to Gehlot reflects the strong values upheld by Congress leaders.

IANS: The transfers of IAS and IPS officers, pending since January, have finally occurred. Was it necessary to bring this up as former Chief Minister Gehlot did?

Dotasra: The state government acts only when instructed from New Delhi. Now that the directive has come, the transfers have been executed.

IANS: The Congress has been vocal against the government. While the state government claims a false narrative, you continue to protest unitedly. Why?

Dotasra: There is no credible evidence of significant development. No major projects have been inaugurated, and there are no notable improvements in roads, water, electricity, or healthcare. Let them demonstrate how many promises from the manifesto have been fulfilled or how many ministers have engaged with the public.

IANS: You’ve highlighted the delay in local body elections. What’s the situation?

Dotasra: The five-year term has concluded, yet elections remain unheld. Why is the Election Commission silent? This constitutes a serious breach of constitutional norms, and we, as the Opposition, must raise our voices. Panchayat elections have been overdue for months, and municipal elections are being postponed. We’ve had to approach the court, and several officials may face contempt proceedings.

IANS: The Congress has been vocal regarding the pending Sub-Inspector recruitment exam. What’s the reason?

Dotasra: This stems from a lack of coordination between the Chief Minister and Deputy CMs. While Deputy CMs propose canceling the exam, the CM has yet to respond.

IANS: What about investments in the state following Rising Rajasthan and IIFA?

Dotasra: Can the BJP government identify any major investor who has commenced investments in the state? Significant elections in Ganganagar and Bharatpur are still pending after five years. There appears to be no urgency from the state government.