Jaipur, Feb 7 (NationPress) Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Saturday drew a comparison between his government's two-year rule and the five years of the previous Congress administration. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took to social media to contest the government's assertions of 'good governance', shedding light on various issues of mismanagement.

Gehlot claimed that the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme (RGHS) is on the verge of collapse due to a lack of funds and poor management. He pointed out that approximately Rs 800 crore is overdue to pharmaceutical vendors.

“Payments are supposed to be settled within 21 days, yet files have reportedly languished in the secretariat for six months. This delay is adversely affecting millions of senior citizens and government employees suffering from serious health conditions,” he remarked.

Gehlot further criticized Chief Minister Sharma, saying that while Sharma makes grand statements about '5 years versus 2 years' during his lengthy Assembly speech, the reality is that elderly pensioners and government staff with health issues are finding it hard to procure medications in the state.

“The state owes Rs 800 crore to medicine suppliers under the RGHS scheme. The stipulated payment timeline is 21 days, but files have been stuck for six months. Consequently, elderly pensioners are returning from pharmacies empty-handed and are compelled to endure the financial strain of costly private treatments. It’s simple to sit in a position of authority and criticize the previous government, but challenging to maintain the services that the public relies on,” he added.

Gehlot urged the Chief Minister to move beyond rhetoric and take immediate action to support the elderly population by ensuring prompt payments.

Earlier during the budget discussion, Chief Minister Sharma claimed his administration has accomplished more in terms of infrastructure, electricity, and agriculture in two years than the Congress government did in five. In response, Gehlot stated that true development should be evaluated not solely by numbers but also by the reliable provision of essential public services. He emphasized that withholding funds undermines previous welfare initiatives.

Reports indicate that numerous pharmacies have ceased or scaled back their provision of medications under RGHS due to prolonged payment delays. Elderly pensioners reliant on government health benefits now find themselves forced to pay for expensive medications out of pocket. Gehlot labeled this a governmental failure and called for immediate financial settlements.