Is the 50% Quota for Youth in Local Body Polls a Game Changer for Developing Strong Grassroots Leadership in Congress? Dotasra Speaks (IANS Interview)

Jaipur, June 23 (NationPress) Pradesh Congress Committee president Govind Singh Dotasra sharply criticized the performance of the Rajasthan government, asserting, “No significant work has been accomplished.” He also remarked on the Congress's decision to provide 50% reservation for individuals under 50 in local body elections, calling it a transformative strategy to foster robust, youthful grassroots leadership.

Dotasra questioned the Rajasthan government regarding the delay in conducting local body elections, highlighting that although five years have lapsed, the administration has made no progress.

Here are selected highlights from the exclusive interview:

IANS: You’ve revealed a 50% reservation for individuals under 50. What’s the rationale behind this initiative?

Dotasra: This choice is in line with the Udaipur Resolution established by Congress leaders. Both Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, along with other prominent figures, have emphasized the significance of empowering youth. We aim to build the party from the roots.

Youth will now take lead roles at the mandal, block, and district tiers, participating in decision-making processes, including ticket allocations. We are rolling this out across 400 blocks, 2,200 mandals, and executive committees at both the block and district levels — ensuring 50% representation for those under 50.

IANS: Recently, two rivals, Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot, were seen together at an event. What’s your perspective?

Dotasra: The Congress is a party rooted in virtues and values. It marked the 25th death anniversary of Sachin Pilot's father. Upholding these values, party leaders from both Delhi and Rajasthan gathered in Dausa to honor the late leader. Sachin Pilot's invitation to Gehlot exemplifies his strong values as a Congress leader.

IANS: The transfers of IAS and IPS officers pending since January have finally occurred. Was it necessary to bring this matter up as former Chief Minister Gehlot did?

Dotasra: The state government responds only when directives come from New Delhi. Now that directives have arrived, transfers have been executed.

IANS: The Congress has been vocal against the government. The state government claims there’s a false narrative, yet protests continue. Why?

Dotasra: There’s no credible evidence of substantial development. No major projects inaugurated, no new policies benefiting the public, and no remarkable progress in infrastructure, water supply, electricity, or healthcare. They should reveal how many manifesto promises were fulfilled and how many ministers have been engaging with districts and the public.

IANS: You’ve been highlighting the delay in local body elections. What’s the situation?

Dotasra: The five-year term has concluded, yet elections have yet to take place. Why is the Election Commission silent? This is a serious breach of constitutional norms, and as the Opposition, we are obligated to voice our concerns. Panchayat elections have been delayed for months, and municipal polls are continually postponed. We’ve had to seek judicial intervention, and numerous officials may face contempt proceedings.

IANS: The Congress has been advocating for a resolution regarding the delayed Sub-Inspector recruitment exam. Why is this a concern?

Dotasra: This stems from a lack of coordination between the Chief Minister and Deputy CMs. Deputy CMs have suggested canceling the exam, while the CM has yet to respond.

IANS: What about investments in the state post Rising Rajasthan and IIFA?

Dotasra: Can the BJP government demonstrate which significant investors have commenced investments in the state? Key elections in Ganganagar and Bharatpur remain pending even after five years. The state government appears to lack urgency.