September 5, 2023
Introduction
In a bold and impassioned statement, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot recently made waves during the launch of NDTV’s new channel, NDTV Rajasthan. Gehlot, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress, addressed the audience with his concerns about the state of democracy in India, particularly focusing on the contentious issue of ‘one nation, one election,’ and his unwavering determination to lead the Congress government to victory in Rajasthan.
The Chief Minister expressed his reservations about the central government’s move towards implementing simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies throughout the country. Gehlot argued that this significant shift in the electoral process lacked consensus-building and posed a threat to the democratic principles of India.
Gehlot’s criticism extended to the composition of the committee tasked with examining this issue, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. He questioned the involvement of a former President in such a committee and emphasized that it could generate both criticism and praise.
“The President’s post is a prestigious one. I have never heard of a former President heading a committee. The committee will be criticised as well as praised, and you have needlessly involved the former President in this,” Gehlot remarked.
The Rajasthan Chief Minister strongly urged the central government to engage opposition parties in discussions and build consensus before pushing for such significant changes in the electoral system. He highlighted that the government’s decision to call a special Parliament session from September 18-22 had not been adequately explained to the nation, raising concerns about transparency in a democracy.
Gehlot’s fervent statements about the current state of democracy in India underscored his deep-rooted concerns. “These things are not good in a democracy,” he asserted.
When questioned about the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) potential retaliation for their inability to form a government in Rajasthan after the previous elections, Gehlot responded with unwavering confidence, stating, “They (the BJP) should know who they are dealing with.”
Pressed further about the origins of his unusually aggressive stance, Gehlot explained, “It’s coming from the heart. When one is walking on the path of truth, one gets aggression at the right time, as well as success.”
Conclusion
The Chief Minister’s words reflect the intensifying political climate in India, where major parties grapple with issues related to electoral reforms, democracy, and transparency. Gehlot’s commitment to his party and his state’s people, combined with his concern for democratic values, sets the stage for a compelling political narrative as the nation navigates through these challenging times.
