Jaipur, Aug 20 (NationPress) The chief of the Rajasthan Congress, Govind Singh Dotasra, has publicly denounced the Central government's 'One Nation, One Election' initiative, labeling it a “falsehood, hypocrisy, and a tactic to deceive the populace.

In reaction to the BJP government's delay in announcing election schedules for Panchayat bodies in the state, a ‘Swaraj Bachao Rally’ was conducted by the Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Sangathan.

During this event, RPCC President Govind Singh Dotasra, along with Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully and numerous Congress leaders and supporters, were in attendance.

The rally highlighted the urgent demand for the immediate announcement of election dates for both Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies.

Numerous Congress MLAs, candidates, and a substantial number of party workers joined the rally.

While speaking to the media, Dotasra criticized the Central government’s proposal for ‘One Nation, One Election’, asserting it was a “lie,” “hypocrisy,” and “an attempt to mislead the public”.

“Given that simultaneous elections have never been conducted in our country since independence, how can it be expected to happen now? The Constitution stipulates a five-year term, and any attempt to override this for political gain is perilous,” Dotasra remarked.

He further stated that the Central government’s actions lack constitutional validity and are designed to undermine democratic institutions.

A 'Pushpanjali' program was also held in honor of the late former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, as August 20 marks his birth anniversary.

Dotasra paid tribute to Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy, noting: “Rajiv Gandhi is credited for propelling India into the 21st century through the computer and IT revolution. It was during his tenure that the voting age was lowered to 18. His visionary 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments ensured regular elections for local bodies and provided reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Today, the entire nation reaps the benefits of these reforms.”

Leader of Opposition Jully shared similar views, referring to Rajiv Gandhi as the “father of India’s IT revolution”, and acknowledged his role in empowering youth and fortifying grassroots democratic institutions.

Addressing the issue of delayed Panchayati Raj elections in Rajasthan, Dotasra accused the state BJP government of intentional constitutional breaches.

He claimed: “Administrators are being appointed in Panchayati Raj bodies. Their terms are being extended without justification. Elections are not being conducted as scheduled. The State Election Commission appears reluctant to proceed with them. Even after the High Court’s warning six months ago, numerous positions remain unfilled and elections are still pending.”

He alleged that the government is purposefully postponing elections under the guise of delimitation and voter list preparation, despite clear constitutional requirements for elections every five years.

Dotasra also pointed out the inactivity of the OBC Commission and the lack of its report, which hampers the implementation of OBC reservations in upcoming local elections, as directed by the Supreme Court.

He suggested this is being exploited as a rationale for further election delays.

“The BJP is intentionally avoiding these elections due to their apprehension regarding the public’s verdict. Elected representatives from Panchayati Raj bodies would echo the voice of the populace—something the BJP evidently wishes to prevent.”

Dotasra concluded by asserting that the state government operates entirely under the guidance of central leadership, lacking independent decision-making in the public’s interest.

“This government was formed through arbitrary means, and now it waits for ‘orders’ from the Centre for every decision. Democracy is being eroded, and the voice of the people is being suppressed.”