Jodhpur, Nov 3 (PTI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Tuesday questioned the political legacy of his predecessor Ashok Gehlot, alleging that the veteran Congress leader exploited farmers before entering politics and favoured his family over the people of his home constituency, Sardarpura in Jodhpur district.
The political attack dominated Sharma’s address at a public meeting after a ‘Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao’ march from the Gandhi Maidan to the Gol Building Chauraha here.
Although the programme was organised around the broader political narrative of saving democracy, the chief minister devoted much of his speech to targeting Gehlot on issues ranging from his alleged business dealings to corruption and dynastic politics.
Taking a swipe at the Congress veteran, Sharma contrasted their backgrounds, saying, “I am the son of a farmer, while you are the son of a magician.”
He alleged that Gehlot made money by exploiting farmers through his fertiliser and seed business and even sold spurious products to them at inflated rates.
Referring to an alleged raid at Gehlot’s godown, Sharma said farmers still possessed bills documenting the prices at which fertilisers and seeds were sold.
He also challenged the former chief minister to recall his dealings with farmers instead of projecting himself as their well-wisher.
Stating that he won’t remain silent to Gehlot’s political attacks, Sharma said, “I am a Brajwasi. Whatever you say, I would leave no stone unturned to respond,” he said.
Turning the spotlight on Gehlot’s political record in Jodhpur, Sharma alleged that the former chief minister repeatedly secured people’s mandate but failed to deliver for them.
Instead, he claimed, Gehlot prioritised the interests of his family members and relatives.
He also accused the Congress of practising politics centred on family, corruption and appeasement and said the party’s disconnect with the public was growing.
Raking up alleged irregularities during the previous Congress regime, Sharma questioned the appointment of an Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) member allegedly in exchange for money.
He also questioned Gehlot’s criticism of bureaucrats who served during his tenure.
On the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Sharma accused the Congress of misleading people through rumours and defended the exercise as necessary to identify infiltrators.
He also accused the opposition of attempting to create instability and spread anarchy in the country with Pakistan and Bangladesh’s support. PTI COR ARI
This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.