Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajasthan state president Madan Rathore on 19 May launched a sharp counter-offensive against the opposition Congress, accusing former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot of failing to build a permanent water supply infrastructure across Rajasthan despite holding the Chief Minister's post for three terms. Rathore's remarks came in direct response to Gehlot's letter to current Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma demanding the operation of a water train to Jodhpur amid a worsening water crisis in the district.

Rathore's Charge Against Gehlot

Rathore argued that the Congress party had enjoyed prolonged periods in power in Rajasthan, yet failed to create a robust, long-term water delivery system — including in Jodhpur, one of the state's largest cities. He described this as a matter of serious concern and accused Congress leaders of now resorting to political theatrics after years of inaction on basic infrastructure.

According to Rathore, water supply in Jodhpur city remained largely normal, with disruptions confined primarily to rural areas. He attributed the temporary shortfall to a scheduled closure at the Bhakra Dam, adding that the situation was gradually returning to normal as the current BJP government worked continuously to restore door-to-door water delivery.

BJP Office Gherao and NEET Controversy

Rathore also targeted Rajasthan Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra, urging the party to introspect before proceeding with its announced gherao of the BJP office on 21 May. The gherao has been called over the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak case.

Rathore claimed that the incidents Congress was raising allegations over had no connection with the BJP and were instead linked to individuals associated with the Congress party itself — a charge the opposition has denied.

Fuel and Gas Prices: BJP Hits Back

On the question of rising fuel and gas prices, Rathore accused the opposition of indulging in petty politics at a time of genuine global supply-chain stress. He pointed to the tense situation in Gulf countries, where, he said, circumstances resembling a war-like environment had emerged and production centres were being targeted.

Rathore asserted that the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi was taking effective steps to protect national interests and maintain uninterrupted essential supplies. He noted that Indian vessels were continuing to safely navigate through the Strait of Hormuz and that the Centre remained actively engaged in securing fuel and gas availability.

He also defended PM Modi's appeal for frugality and reduced discretionary spending, calling suggestions such as carpooling practical and beneficial rather than subjects for political point-scoring.

A Human Note Amid the Politics

Rathore broke from the combative tone briefly to praise a BJP worker named Rena, who had reportedly set up parindas — clay water pots for birds — despite being in fragile health. Amid a severe heatwave across the state, he appealed to citizens to arrange food and water for animals and birds, and urged people to install water pots and keep them filled through the summer season.

With the BJP-Congress face-off over water, NEET, and fuel likely to intensify ahead of the 21 May gherao, the political temperature in Rajasthan shows little sign of cooling.