Is Ex-CM Gehlot Right to Criticise Bhajan Lal Sharma's Government?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ashok Gehlot critiques the Bhajan Lal Sharma government for rising public discontent.
- The importance of prioritizing public welfare is emphasized.
- Concerns about stalled projects and governance credibility are raised.
- Gehlot advises the need for capable advisors in governance.
- The impact of the delimitation process on fair representation is highlighted.
Jaipur, Sep 22 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has once again voiced his concerns regarding the performance of the government led by Bhajan Lal Sharma during a media interaction at the Circuit House in Bhilwara.
“I have no objection to CM Bhajan Lal Sharma or his administration. My focus is on the well-being of the common citizens. The government must prioritize public welfare and serve the people,” he remarked, noting that typically, after three years of a government's establishment, public discontent begins to surface.
“However, this is unprecedented in Rajasthan, where protests have emerged right after the government took office. Citizens are facing issues, crime rates are escalating, and fear looms large across the state, yet their voices go unheard. This is detrimental to Rajasthan,” he asserted.
He advised CM Bhajan Lal Sharma to surround himself with capable advisors to enhance governance.
Gehlot claimed that despite being in power for two years, the Bhajan Lal Sharma-led government has been grappling with anti-incumbency since day one.
“The government's credibility has diminished. Strong governance benefits everyone, yet today, the suffering of the populace is being overlooked,” he stated.
He accused the administration of halting projects initiated by the previous Congress government.
“We implemented free electricity for 100 units, but this government has politicized it and discriminated in billing. Even now, citizens are struggling to obtain electricity connections. Contractors are awaiting payments, farmers are unpaid, and the compensation from last year remains unreleased. Livestock lack fodder, leading to significant losses for farmers. Agencies must be held accountable,” Gehlot emphasized.
Pointing to the Chiranjeevi scheme, he remarked that Rajasthan was once a benchmark in the healthcare sector.
“We provided Rs 25 lakh in insurance coverage, and organ transplants were free, ensuring security for the underprivileged. However, this government has slashed benefits to merely Rs 5 lakh, misleading the public,” he alleged.
Gehlot also cautioned the government regarding delimitation.
“If delimitation is executed unfairly, the government will face repercussions. It must be conducted equitably at both state and district levels.”
He raised alarms about the gravel mafia, stating its unchecked terror is spreading throughout the state. Addressing the issue of alleged electoral fraud, Gehlot commented: “This poses a serious threat to democracy. While the Election Commission is scrutinized, the BJP responds. The mistrust surrounding EVMs has fostered an atmosphere of suspicion nationwide, leading to a growing movement against vote theft.”
In a direct attack on the BJP, he added: “We were pioneers in providing grants to cow shelters. BJP leaders merely feign devotion to cows; they do not genuinely serve them. Their politics is rooted in Hindu-Muslim divisions and empty promises.”