Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot on 22 June firmly rejected allegations of factionalism within the Indian National Congress, asserting that the party remains united in Rajasthan and across the country, while turning the spotlight on the Bharatiya Janata Party for what he described as selective scrutiny of the opposition.

Gehlot Rejects Factionalism Allegations

Speaking during an informal interaction with journalists in Jaipur, Gehlot said recurring questions about internal divisions within the Congress lacked any substance. 'Congress is united. There is no factionalism in Rajasthan or anywhere else in the country. Anyone who has doubts should clear them. These questions are raised repeatedly, but there is no substance to them,' he said.

Gehlot subsequently shared a video of the media exchange on social media platform X, reinforcing his position publicly. He also drew a pointed contrast with the BJP, noting that the Congress had never questioned why senior BJP leader Rajendra Rathore was not nominated to the Rajya Sabha. 'There is a lot that can be said about the BJP, but we choose not to comment. Yet they continue to talk about Congress,' he remarked.

Attack on Rajasthan Government Over Delayed Local Body Elections

Gehlot sharpened his criticism of the incumbent BJP state government, accusing it of defying judicial directives on Panchayati Raj and urban local body elections. 'Everyone can see their anxiety. Despite orders from both the High Court and the Supreme Court, elections are not being conducted. Since they are in power at the Centre as well, to whom should people appeal?' he said.

He further argued that if constitutional obligations were not being fulfilled, the Governor should submit a report to the President. Drawing on his own record, Gehlot recalled that elections were held on schedule even in 1998 when government employees were on strike, citing a High Court directive at the time that elections must proceed regardless of circumstances.

Contradiction in Kirodi Lal Meena's ACB Allegations

Gehlot also responded to claims by BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) was operating under pressure and allegedly framing him in a false case. Gehlot questioned the internal logic of that accusation. 'If the ACB functions under the Chief Minister's authority, then whom exactly is Kirodi Lal Meena accusing?' he asked, suggesting the allegation reflected poorly on the ruling party's own cohesion.

Criticism of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma

Responding to recent criticism of the previous Congress government by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Gehlot said such remarks should not be taken seriously. He alleged that even BJP leaders within the state had openly criticised the Chief Minister since he assumed office. 'Ministers complain that their work is not being done, and nobody listens to them. Some ministers are seen arguing at police stations, while others are threatening district collectors,' he said.

Gehlot also flagged what he described as the Chief Minister's reluctance to engage with the press. 'To date, he has not held a proper interaction with the media or answered their questions. He should face the media regularly. The press reflects the realities on the ground, and that ultimately helps the government,' he said. The remarks signal that Congress intends to keep pressure on the Rajasthan government ahead of future electoral cycles.