Should CM Bhajan Lal Sharma Embrace Public Accountability and Reject Nepotism?
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Synopsis
In a compelling call for governance reform, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot urges current CM Bhajan Lal Sharma to prioritize public accountability over nepotism. His insights on the political climate and the need for genuine representation highlight the challenges faced in Rajasthan's governance. Will Sharma heed this advice?
Key Takeaways
- Call for Public Accountability: Gehlot emphasizes the need for Sharma to prioritize accountability in governance.
- Critique of Nepotism: He argues against nepotistic practices that hinder public service.
- Public Dissatisfaction: Gehlot points out rising public discontent and corruption in the current administration.
- Need for Ground-Level Engagement: He stresses the importance of visiting villages for effective governance.
- BJP's Stance: The BJP maintains that CMs are elected for a complete term without frequent changes.
Jaipur, July 8 (NationPress) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has urged Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma to embrace public accountability and steer clear of nepotism.
Gehlot expressed these sentiments while addressing the media after honoring former state Congress president Dr. Girija Vyas on her birth anniversary at the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee headquarters on Tuesday.
“I feel sympathy for Chief Minister Sharma. Not everyone enjoys the same luck as him. It has been a year and a half since he assumed office. Serve for five years, brother -- who’s standing in your way? You fit well for us; Pandit Bhajan Lal is suitable for everyone. Why would we oppose him? We desire for him to govern effectively. However, he must recognize his duties,” Gehlot remarked.
Emphasizing the importance of moving away from nepotism, Gehlot stated, “The type of luck Bhajan Lal has experienced is uncommon. He became both MLA and Chief Minister for the first time. Now, he must relinquish nepotism. Since my childhood, I’ve held the belief that public representatives are the property of the public. Once you become an MLA, MP, or CM, you belong to the people -- anyone should have the right to approach you.”
Gehlot also discussed his relationship with Sharma. “I’ve met him a couple of times. When I was ill, he came to see me. After he became CM, he met me again. He shared that he has 20 years of experience in the party and knows party workers across Rajasthan by name. I sensed energy in him and was optimistic about his performance. It’s natural to take a few months to adjust -- but now it has been a year and a half,” he stated.
Criticizing the BJP, Gehlot remarked, “They used to discuss conduct, character, and appearance -- but all three have now been laid bare. Corruption is widespread, and public discontent is rising. The Chief Minister should discreetly order an intelligence report on the actual situation on the ground. If the opposition's concerns are legitimate, then action should follow. If not, it’s merely politics.”
He also cautioned against administrative decline, stating, “Governance cannot be managed solely from Jaipur. You need to visit the villages. Mafia activities are rampant, hooliganism is widespread, and grievance redressal systems have collapsed. The CM should request a detailed IB report within 15 days -- identify which Collectors and SPs are holding public hearings and field visits, and who aren’t. Act on that -- it will benefit the public.”
Gehlot’s demeanor was noticeably more conciliatory compared to Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasara, who recently predicted that Bhajan Lal Sharma would not complete a full term, even though the BJP government might persist.
Interestingly, Gehlot had previously indicated that a conspiracy was unfolding within the BJP to oust Sharma. In response, BJP state in-charge Radha Mohan Das Agarwal stated, “In the BJP, the Chief Minister is selected for a complete five-year term; we do not frequently change CMs.”
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the need for accountability in governance. Ashok Gehlot's call to CM Bhajan Lal Sharma underscores a crucial moment in Rajasthan's political landscape, as the focus shifts to public service and effective leadership. The nation must support transparent governance for the benefit of all citizens.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashok Gehlot urge CM Bhajan Lal Sharma to do?
Ashok Gehlot urged CM Bhajan Lal Sharma to adopt public accountability and move away from nepotism.
Why are Gehlot's remarks significant?
Gehlot's remarks are significant as they highlight the ongoing issues of corruption and the need for genuine public representation in Rajasthan's governance.
What are the implications of nepotism in politics?
Nepotism in politics can lead to a lack of trust among the public and hinder effective governance, as it often prioritizes personal connections over public interest.
How has the BJP responded to Gehlot's claims?
The BJP, through state in-charge Radha Mohan Das Agarwal, has stated that the Chief Minister is chosen for a full five-year term and that they do not frequently change CMs.
What does Gehlot suggest for improving governance?
Gehlot suggests that the CM should commission an intelligence report to assess the real situation on the ground and ensure that administrative responsibilities are being fulfilled.
