BJP's Rajendra Gehlot Critiques Ashok Gehlot's Remarks on Pachpadra Refinery
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jaipur, April 10 (NationPress) In a recent statement, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha member Rajendra Gehlot took aim at former Rajasthan Chief Minister and seasoned Congress figure Ashok Gehlot, asserting that his comments regarding the inauguration of the Pachpadra Refinery in Jaipur epitomize "petty politics".
Rajendra Gehlot pointed out that during Ashok Gehlot's tenure as Chief Minister, there was neither a definitive site chosen for the refinery nor was there any substantive planning or a transparent budget established.
He charged that the foundation stone was laid in a rush, merely for political gain.
Furthermore, Rajendra Gehlot emphasized that it was under the previous BJP administration in 2016 that a suitable site was confirmed and a comprehensive financial strategy was developed.
He also claimed that from 2018 to 2023, progress on the project was minimal under the leadership of the Congress government.
According to him, instead of pushing forward with the refinery's development, the Congress government was absorbed in political matters.
Highlighting the current administration's efforts, Rajendra Gehlot mentioned that since the BJP took charge in Rajasthan in December 2023, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has placed significant emphasis on the refinery project, aligning it with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a 'Viksit Bharat'.
He noted that Chief Minister Sharma has actively overseen the project's advancement through various site visits, ensuring its completion in a timely manner.
Rajendra Gehlot pointed out that the Pachpadra Refinery is slated for inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 21.
As per the BJP Rajya Sabha member, this project is expected to create substantial job opportunities for the youth, enhance infrastructure in western Rajasthan, particularly in Barmer, and stimulate economic growth in the region.
He also underscored that infrastructural initiatives like Bharatmala and related connectivity projects—including railway links, pipelines, and logistics networks—are anticipated to further catalyze industrial development in the area.
In conclusion, Rajendra Gehlot remarked that rather than criticizing a project that signifies a major achievement in Rajasthan's growth, Ashok Gehlot should evaluate the outcomes of his own time in office. It is important to note that Ashok Gehlot had accused the BJP government earlier that day of delaying a project he claimed was initiated during the Congress administration.