Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay.&nbsp;

"Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," news agency ANI quoted him. 
 
&nbsp;

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Rahul Gandhi: Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide. <a href="https://t.co/pvImuPq2rj">pic.twitter.com/pvImuPq2rj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1146340387373666304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to say that it was his honour to serve as the Congress President and shared the resignation letter.

“I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love,” he wrote on Twitter.

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It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. 
 
I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. 
 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/WWGYt5YG4V">pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1146359704815194112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier today, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot met UPA chief Sonia Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi.

The development comes two days after chief ministers of five Congress-ruled states urged Rahul Gandhi not to leave the post of the party president.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remains unfazed. 
 
On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. 
 
However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay. "Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process.

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay. "Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," news agency ANI quoted him. Rahul Gandhi: Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide. pic.twitter.com/pvImuPq2rj — ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2019 × Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to say that it was his honour to serve as the Congress President and shared the resignation letter. “I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love,” he wrote on Twitter. It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 3, 2019 × Earlier today, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot met UPA chief Sonia Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi. The development comes two days after chief ministers of five Congress-ruled states urged Rahul Gandhi not to leave the post of the party president. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remains unfazed. On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

Party should decide on the new Congress president quickly, says Rahul Gandhi

A day after the Central government announced to revise tax on fuel prices, Rajasthan government on Friday announced to increase the tax on petrol and diesel by 4% each with effect from July 6.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (5) of section 4 of the Rajasthan Value Added Tax Act, 2003 (Act No.4 of 2003), the state government being of the opinion that it is expedient in the public interest so to do, hereby makes the following amendments in Schedule-VI appended to the said Act, with effect from 06.07.2019," state government in an official statement said.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot while addressing media persons here said, "The previous government has reduced the VAT by 4% in order to win the elections. The centre also hiked it several times and for their own benefit, they reduced it before elections. We have done nothing. By increasing 4% tax each on petrol and diesel, we are correcting the mistake committed by them."

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday while presenting her maiden Budget in the Lok Sabha said that additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess of one rupee will be imposed on petrol and diesel.

Sitharaman had said crude prices have softened from their highs, paving way for her to review excise duty and cess on petrol and diesel.

"I propose to increase special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess each by one rupee a litre on petrol and diesel," she had said.

However, the Finance Minister dismissed suggestions that levies on petrol and diesel will fuel inflation, saying it was aimed at meeting public funding needs without hurting individual taxpayers and was also a step to move away from fossil fuels to electric vehicles.&nbsp;

A day after the Central government announced to revise tax on fuel prices, Rajasthan government on Friday announced to increase the tax on petrol and diesel by 4% each with effect from July 6.

A day after the Central government announced to revise tax on fuel prices, Rajasthan government on Friday announced to increase the tax on petrol and diesel by 4% each with effect from July 6. "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (5) of section 4 of the Rajasthan Value Added Tax Act, 2003 (Act No.4 of 2003), the state government being of the opinion that it is expedient in the public interest so to do, hereby makes the following amendments in Schedule-VI appended to the said Act, with effect from 06.07.2019," state government in an official statement said. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot while addressing media persons here said, "The previous government has reduced the VAT by 4% in order to win the elections. The centre also hiked it several times and for their own benefit, they reduced it before elections. We have done nothing. By increasing 4% tax each on petrol and diesel, we are correcting the mistake committed by them." Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday while presenting her maiden Budget in the Lok Sabha said that additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess of one rupee will be imposed on petrol and diesel. Sitharaman had said crude prices have softened from their highs, paving way for her to review excise duty and cess on petrol and diesel. "I propose to increase special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess each by one rupee a litre on petrol and diesel," she had said. However, the Finance Minister dismissed suggestions that levies on petrol and diesel will fuel inflation, saying it was aimed at meeting public funding needs without hurting individual taxpayers and was also a step to move away from fossil fuels to electric vehicles.

Rajasthan government hikes 4% VAT on fuel, CM Ashok Gehlot says 'correcting BJP's mistake'

As soon as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-me-to-serve-congress-party-rahul-gandhi-tweets-his-resignation-letter-232732">Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation</a> as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision.

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.''

The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.''

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Few have the courage that you do <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a>. Deepest respect for your decision. <a href="https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P">https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1146619515339444224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

Chief Minister of Rajasthan&nbsp;Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh.&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.''

''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added.

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He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 
3/
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1146479764779094016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. &nbsp;Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded.

Mumbai Congress president&nbsp;Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-rahul-gandhi-tweets-resignation-232874/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat."

Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said.

Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle.

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.'' The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.'' Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision. https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 4, 2019 × Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh. Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.'' ''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added. He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 3/ — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 3, 2019 × BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded. Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.'' Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat." Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. ''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said. Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Congress leaders disappointed over Rahul Gandhi's resignation, urge to rethink his decision

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-working-committee-to-meet-this-week-over-rahuls-resignation-231962">Rahul Gandhi</a> today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario.

"All Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states will be meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi today at his residence to show our solidarity. Earlier also we all have stated that we are with Congress president and we own the responsibility of the 2019 debacle," Gehlot tweeted.

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We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched.
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1145566567859548160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched," he said in another tweet.

Gehlot went on to add that the 2019 Lok Sabha election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress.

"Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, BJP did manage to hide their huge failures behind their fanatic nationalism with help of enormous resources and government machinery at hand. But, in spite all odds, it's no secret how amidst opposition, only Congress president did his best to make it an issue-based election and took BJP head on," Gehlot stated.

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The 2019 election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, 
1/2
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1145566771111272448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Besides Gehlot, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, and Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy are expected to meet Gandhi.

The Chief Ministers had been planning to meet the Congress chief for long to request him to continue as the party chief. Also, they are likely to discuss the mass resignations taking place in the party.

Gandhi, who became the party president in 2017, offered to step down from his post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the Congress'&nbsp;abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha Elections.

However, his resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. So far, several top leaders have met Gandhi and urged him to continue to lead the party.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince the 49-year-old party chief to rethink his decision, he remains unfazed.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than what the party won in 2014 polls.

Meanwhile, Congress workers sat on hunger strike outside party headquarters, urging Gandhi to take back his resignation from the post of party president.

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president Rahul Gandhi today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario.

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president Rahul Gandhi today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario. "All Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states will be meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi today at his residence to show our solidarity. Earlier also we all have stated that we are with Congress president and we own the responsibility of the 2019 debacle," Gehlot tweeted. We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched. — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 1, 2019 × "We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched," he said in another tweet. Gehlot went on to add that the 2019 Lok Sabha election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. "Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, BJP did manage to hide their huge failures behind their fanatic nationalism with help of enormous resources and government machinery at hand. But, in spite all odds, it's no secret how amidst opposition, only Congress president did his best to make it an issue-based election and took BJP head on," Gehlot stated. The 2019 election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, 1/2 — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 1, 2019 × Besides Gehlot, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, and Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy are expected to meet Gandhi. The Chief Ministers had been planning to meet the Congress chief for long to request him to continue as the party chief. Also, they are likely to discuss the mass resignations taking place in the party. Gandhi, who became the party president in 2017, offered to step down from his post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the Congress' abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha Elections. However, his resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. So far, several top leaders have met Gandhi and urged him to continue to lead the party. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince the 49-year-old party chief to rethink his decision, he remains unfazed. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than what the party won in 2014 polls. Meanwhile, Congress workers sat on hunger strike outside party headquarters, urging Gandhi to take back his resignation from the post of party president.

Only Rahul Gandhi can lead Congress in current scenario: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons.

The police filed a charge sheet against&nbsp;Khan's sons Irsad (25) and Arif (22) under sections 5, 8 and 9 while charges have been framed against the deceased under section 6 of the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995.

The charge sheet against Khan was prepared on December 30 last year, 13 days after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's government came into power in Rajasthan.

Section 5 of the RBA Act pertains to the prohibition of the export of bovine animals for the purpose of slaughter and regulation of temporary migration or export for other purposes, while section 6 says the transporter is also an abettor and is liable for the same punishment as the person committing the offence.

Section 8 is about the penalty for such offences while Section 9 mentions punishment for causing hurt to a bovine animal.

In 2018, the previous BJP government in the state had filed a similar charge sheet against two associates of Khan, who were also attacked by the mob.

There were two FIRs registered in the case. One was against the mob for beating Khan to death and second against him and his family for transporting cattle (cow) illegally out of the state.

The police had earlier given a clean chit to the six people accused of lynching Khan, a dairy farmer. The police's decision was reportedly based on statements of the staff of a cow shelter and mobile phone records.

55-year-old Khan, a native of Nuh in Haryana, was allegedly beaten up by self-styled cow vigilantes near Behror in Rajasthan on the Delhi-Alwar highway on April 1, accusing him of smuggling cattle. He succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital on April 3.

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons.

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons. The police filed a charge sheet against Khan's sons Irsad (25) and Arif (22) under sections 5, 8 and 9 while charges have been framed against the deceased under section 6 of the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995. The charge sheet against Khan was prepared on December 30 last year, 13 days after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's government came into power in Rajasthan. Section 5 of the RBA Act pertains to the prohibition of the export of bovine animals for the purpose of slaughter and regulation of temporary migration or export for other purposes, while section 6 says the transporter is also an abettor and is liable for the same punishment as the person committing the offence. Section 8 is about the penalty for such offences while Section 9 mentions punishment for causing hurt to a bovine animal. In 2018, the previous BJP government in the state had filed a similar charge sheet against two associates of Khan, who were also attacked by the mob. There were two FIRs registered in the case. One was against the mob for beating Khan to death and second against him and his family for transporting cattle (cow) illegally out of the state. The police had earlier given a clean chit to the six people accused of lynching Khan, a dairy farmer. The police's decision was reportedly based on statements of the staff of a cow shelter and mobile phone records. 55-year-old Khan, a native of Nuh in Haryana, was allegedly beaten up by self-styled cow vigilantes near Behror in Rajasthan on the Delhi-Alwar highway on April 1, accusing him of smuggling cattle. He succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital on April 3.

Alwar lynching case: Victim Pehlu Khan, sons charged for smuggling cattle

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer.

At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday.&nbsp;

Gehlot along with state health minister Raghu Sharma, revenue minister Harish Chaudhary, energy minister B D Kalla and others visited Jasol village and paid floral tributes to those who lost their lives in the incident.&nbsp;

"The incident is very unfortunate. An inquiry will be conducted," the chief minister told reporters. He also directed officials to ensure that proper treatment is provided to the injured.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Barmer MP Kailash Chaudhary visited hospitals to enquire about the condition of the injured.&nbsp;

A 'Ram Katha' was organised at a school ground near Rani Bhatiyani temple in Jasol village of the district on Sunday. The pandal was uprooted by strong winds, trapping the people sitting under it, police said, adding that hundreds of devotees were attending the programme. 
&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer. At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer. At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday. Gehlot along with state health minister Raghu Sharma, revenue minister Harish Chaudhary, energy minister B D Kalla and others visited Jasol village and paid floral tributes to those who lost their lives in the incident. "The incident is very unfortunate. An inquiry will be conducted," the chief minister told reporters. He also directed officials to ensure that proper treatment is provided to the injured. Earlier, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Barmer MP Kailash Chaudhary visited hospitals to enquire about the condition of the injured. A 'Ram Katha' was organised at a school ground near Rani Bhatiyani temple in Jasol village of the district on Sunday. The pandal was uprooted by strong winds, trapping the people sitting under it, police said, adding that hundreds of devotees were attending the programme.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot meets kin of Barmer pandal collapse incident victims

Rifts in the Rajasthan Congress resurfaced June 4 with two party leaders criticising Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for suggesting that State unit president Sachin Pilot should take responsibility for his son Vaibhav Gehlot’s election defeat.

India Watch: Rifts widen among opposition parties

Rajasthan Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ashok-gehlot-priyanka-gandhi-sachin-pilot-spotted-at-rahul-gandhis-residence-222184">Ashok Gehlot </a>Sunday said his government will soon enact a law on "right to health" to ensure good health services to everyone in the state.

"Our government is working on a right to health bill which will be introduced soon. The aim of our government is to provide good health services to everyone,"&nbsp;Gehlot said at a function here.&nbsp;

He said the free medical scheme launched by his earlier government was appreciated worldwide and nearly 17 states of the country introduced similar schemes on this pattern.

The chief minister also called upon private players in the medical field to serve the society instead of making health care business.&nbsp;

Right to health was promised by the Congress in its election manifesto during the December 2018 assembly elections in the state. Congress had promised quality health services to citizens through a law right to health.

Gehlot was speaking at a free medical camp for heart diseases at Shree Satya Sai College here. Health minister Raghu Sharma and others were also present on the occasion.

The CM said that the government was working on the bill so that all the people can have access to quality health care services in the state.

Gehlot said it should be the responsibility of the government to ensure quality healthcare services to all the citizens and his government was working in that direction.

However, he also said the government alone cannot do everything and private sector players should also play an active role in serving the society.

"Former UPA government had started the era of Rights in the country by giving the right to information, right to education, food security, MGNREGA. We now want that people get right to health in the state," Gehlot told reporters after the event.

"The government should take care of people's health. A lot of money is spent on treatment," he said.

Gehlot said that the free medicine scheme launched in the state during his earlier term (2008-13) was appreciated at various level, including by the WHO.

"We have now increased the number of the medicines under the scheme and next we want to enact the right to health law to strengthen (the healthcare system)," he added.

Under the free medicine scheme launched by the Congress government in its earlier term, generic medicines of common diseases are given free in the hospitals.&nbsp;

The number of medicines has been increased and medicines for the treatment of cancer, kidney and heart diseases are also being provided free under the scheme in government hospitals of the state.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Sunday said his government will soon enact a law on "right to health" to ensure good health services to everyone in the state.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Sunday said his government will soon enact a law on "right to health" to ensure good health services to everyone in the state. "Our government is working on a right to health bill which will be introduced soon. The aim of our government is to provide good health services to everyone," Gehlot said at a function here. He said the free medical scheme launched by his earlier government was appreciated worldwide and nearly 17 states of the country introduced similar schemes on this pattern. The chief minister also called upon private players in the medical field to serve the society instead of making health care business. Right to health was promised by the Congress in its election manifesto during the December 2018 assembly elections in the state. Congress had promised quality health services to citizens through a law right to health. Gehlot was speaking at a free medical camp for heart diseases at Shree Satya Sai College here. Health minister Raghu Sharma and others were also present on the occasion. The CM said that the government was working on the bill so that all the people can have access to quality health care services in the state. Gehlot said it should be the responsibility of the government to ensure quality healthcare services to all the citizens and his government was working in that direction. However, he also said the government alone cannot do everything and private sector players should also play an active role in serving the society. "Former UPA government had started the era of Rights in the country by giving the right to information, right to education, food security, MGNREGA. We now want that people get right to health in the state," Gehlot told reporters after the event. "The government should take care of people's health. A lot of money is spent on treatment," he said. Gehlot said that the free medicine scheme launched in the state during his earlier term (2008-13) was appreciated at various level, including by the WHO. "We have now increased the number of the medicines under the scheme and next we want to enact the right to health law to strengthen (the healthcare system)," he added. Under the free medicine scheme launched by the Congress government in its earlier term, generic medicines of common diseases are given free in the hospitals. The number of medicines has been increased and medicines for the treatment of cancer, kidney and heart diseases are also being provided free under the scheme in government hospitals of the state.

Rajasthan to enact a 'right to health' law: Ashok Gehlot

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry.

Shekhawat was first elected to the Lok Sabha from Jodhpur in 2014 and was made the minister of state for agriculture and farmers' welfare in September 2017. On Thursday, he was sworn-in as a cabinet minister.

As an MP, Shekhawat contributed to the development of the civil airport of Jodhpur city, which is also known as the 'blue city', and expansion of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.

The 51-year-old had defeated Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot in Jodhpur by over 2.7 lakh votes. The chief minister had represented the&nbsp; 
constituency five times since 1980.

"This election is about government versus workers and common people. It is an election between the CM's son and a common man's son," Shekhawat had told PTI during the election campaign.

Known for his oratory skills and popular in his constituency, Shekhawat is often fondly referred to as "Gajju banna".

The two-time MP had strained relations with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje. Shekhawat was once in the running for the post of the BJP's state president. But, amid strong opposition from Raje, he lost out to Madan Lal Saini.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, however, was appointed as the convener of the election committee for the assembly election.

Shekhawat made his debut in politics as the president of the Jai Narain Vyas University student union in 1992. He remained closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in the region, especially in the border areas of Barmer and Jaisalmer.&nbsp;

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry.

After defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son from the high-stakes Jodhpur seat, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appeared set to get his second stint in the Union ministry. Shekhawat was first elected to the Lok Sabha from Jodhpur in 2014 and was made the minister of state for agriculture and farmers' welfare in September 2017. On Thursday, he was sworn-in as a cabinet minister. As an MP, Shekhawat contributed to the development of the civil airport of Jodhpur city, which is also known as the 'blue city', and expansion of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. The 51-year-old had defeated Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot in Jodhpur by over 2.7 lakh votes. The chief minister had represented the constituency five times since 1980. "This election is about government versus workers and common people. It is an election between the CM's son and a common man's son," Shekhawat had told PTI during the election campaign. Known for his oratory skills and popular in his constituency, Shekhawat is often fondly referred to as "Gajju banna". The two-time MP had strained relations with former chief minister Vasundhara Raje. Shekhawat was once in the running for the post of the BJP's state president. But, amid strong opposition from Raje, he lost out to Madan Lal Saini. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, however, was appointed as the convener of the election committee for the assembly election. Shekhawat made his debut in politics as the president of the Jai Narain Vyas University student union in 1992. He remained closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in the region, especially in the border areas of Barmer and Jaisalmer.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat: Jodhpur MP who gave Gehlot the 'blues'

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had a series of visitors on Tuesday with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as well as Rajasthan's ruling duo Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot calling on him amid rumblings of discontent in the state and his insistence on quitting.

Rahul Gandhi obdurate on stepping down as Congress President

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls.

After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are"&nbsp;he said.

Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said.

"They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again"&nbsp;he said.

CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again.

Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments.

"In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also",&nbsp;he said.

When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi.

Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state.&nbsp;

Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.&nbsp;

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections. The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls. After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are" he said. Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said. "They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again" he said. CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again. Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments. "In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also", he said. When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi. Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state. Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.

Congress has become a fringe party, siding with tukde tukde gang: Javadekar

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 17th April 2019.

India Election Watch; 17th April 2019

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017.

"People even say that Ram Nath Kovind was made president considering Gujarat assembly elections in 2017. I was reading an article. He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) was afraid that he was not going to form the government in Gujarat. BJP chief Amit Shah might have given him suggestion after which it was decided to make Ram Nath Kovind the president," Gehlot told reporters here at a press conference.

Kovind was elected President in July 2017 and Gujarat assembly elections were held in December in the year.

"(Lal Krishna) Advani was left out though he had to become the president. People of the country had expectation that he (Advani) will get the honour which he deserved but was deprived. Though it is BJP's internal issue, I am discussing it because I read an article," the Rajasthan chief minister added.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the BJP on Wednesday demanded an apology from Gehlot, for his comments against President Ram Nath Kovind, claiming that he was elected to the highest constitutional post due to his caste.

The party also urged the Election Commission (EC) to take strict action against the Congress leader.

"We demand an apology from the Congress leader Ashok Gehlot for his comment that Kovind was made President because of his caste," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said at the party headquarters.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017. "People even say that Ram Nath Kovind was made president considering Gujarat assembly elections in 2017. I was reading an article. He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) was afraid that he was not going to form the government in Gujarat. BJP chief Amit Shah might have given him suggestion after which it was decided to make Ram Nath Kovind the president," Gehlot told reporters here at a press conference. Kovind was elected President in July 2017 and Gujarat assembly elections were held in December in the year. "(Lal Krishna) Advani was left out though he had to become the president. People of the country had expectation that he (Advani) will get the honour which he deserved but was deprived. Though it is BJP's internal issue, I am discussing it because I read an article," the Rajasthan chief minister added. Meanwhile, the BJP on Wednesday demanded an apology from Gehlot, for his comments against President Ram Nath Kovind, claiming that he was elected to the highest constitutional post due to his caste. The party also urged the Election Commission (EC) to take strict action against the Congress leader. "We demand an apology from the Congress leader Ashok Gehlot for his comment that Kovind was made President because of his caste," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said at the party headquarters.

Ram Nath Kovind made President because of his caste: Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency.

Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls.

According to the list of candidates released by Congress party on Thursday night, Manvendra Singh son of veteran BJP leader Jaswant Singh will fight from Barmer seat whereas former Union Minister Bhanwar Jitendra Singh will contest from Alwar seat.

The list has total names of 31 candidates - 19 from Rajasthan, 6 each for Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.

Polling in Rajasthan on 25 seats will be held on April 29 (Phase 4) and May 6 (Phase 5).

Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in seven phases, from April 11 to May 19.

Polling in Gujarat on 26 seats will take place on April 23.

Results of the polls will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency. Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency. Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls. According to the list of candidates released by Congress party on Thursday night, Manvendra Singh son of veteran BJP leader Jaswant Singh will fight from Barmer seat whereas former Union Minister Bhanwar Jitendra Singh will contest from Alwar seat. The list has total names of 31 candidates - 19 from Rajasthan, 6 each for Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. Polling in Rajasthan on 25 seats will be held on April 29 (Phase 4) and May 6 (Phase 5). Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in seven phases, from April 11 to May 19. Polling in Gujarat on 26 seats will take place on April 23. Results of the polls will be declared on May 23.

Lok Sabha 2019: Congress releases list of candidates for Rajasthan, Gujarat, UP; Ashok Gehlot's son to contest from Jodhpur

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi&nbsp;gets re-elected in the country".

Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot&nbsp;said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood.&nbsp;

"If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI.

"If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics,"&nbsp;he said.

Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying&nbsp;that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind".&nbsp;

"This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind".

"Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country".

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country". Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood. "If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI. "If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics," he said. Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind". "This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind". "Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress. (With inputs from PTI)

Elections may become thing of past if Modi gets re-elected as prime minister: Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system.&nbsp; 
 
Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said.&nbsp; 
 
'People in the BJP and RSS are not able to tolerate their criticism. 
 
Mahatma Gandhi had said views of opposition should be respected in democracy, but neither Prime Minister (Modi) nor former state chief minister (Raje) can tolerate their criticism as they do not believe in the&nbsp;democratic systems, 'Gehlot said at a public meeting in Sri Dungargarh.&nbsp; 
 
He said the saffron brigade was doing politics with the 'mask of democracy'.&nbsp; 
 
The chief minister alleged that the BJP recalled the issue of Ram Temple when elections were near.&nbsp; 
 
Targeting the central government over its 2014 election promises, the senior Congress leader said Modi failed to bring back black money, deposit Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of people and provide 2 crore employment every year. 
 
Gehlot added that there was 'no guarantee'&nbsp;of future elections if Modi was voted back to power. 
&nbsp; 
'...There is no guarantee that there will be elections in the future if Modi is elected again,'&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system. Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system. Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said. 'People in the BJP and RSS are not able to tolerate their criticism. Mahatma Gandhi had said views of opposition should be respected in democracy, but neither Prime Minister (Modi) nor former state chief minister (Raje) can tolerate their criticism as they do not believe in the democratic systems, 'Gehlot said at a public meeting in Sri Dungargarh. He said the saffron brigade was doing politics with the 'mask of democracy'. The chief minister alleged that the BJP recalled the issue of Ram Temple when elections were near. Targeting the central government over its 2014 election promises, the senior Congress leader said Modi failed to bring back black money, deposit Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of people and provide 2 crore employment every year. Gehlot added that there was 'no guarantee' of future elections if Modi was voted back to power. '...There is no guarantee that there will be elections in the future if Modi is elected again,' he said.

BJP-RSS cannot tolerate criticism, no regard for democracy: Ashok Gehlot

A speeding truck ran into a marriage procession in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district fatally hitting 13 people, four of them children, while leaving 18 others injured, police said Tuesday.

The accident happened near Ramdev temple on State Highway-113 Monday night when the truck, going to Banswara from Nimbahera, rammed into the marriage party moving on the roadside, Choti Sadri DSP Vijaypal Singh Sandhu said.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said he was deeply saddened to hear about the accident. "My heartfelt condolences to the grieved families. I pray for speedy recovery of injured people (sic)," he tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deeply saddened to hear about the tragic accident on NH-113 in Chhoti Sadri, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pratapgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pratapgarh</a> in which many people have lost their lives and several have been injured. My heartfelt condolences to the grieved families. I pray for speedy recovery of injured people.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a>
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1097553547313463298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He said the injured were rushed to a government hospital in Choti Sadri and later on 15 of them, who were critically hurt, were referred to a facilities in Udaipur.&nbsp;

Nine of the deceased have been identified as: Daulatram (60), Bharat (30), Shubham (5), Chotu (5), Dilip (11), Arjun (15), Ishu (19), Ramesh (30) and Karan (28), police said.&nbsp;

The DSP said the truck driver apparently could not see the procession.

He said the bodies are kept in a mortuary for postmortem and an investigation is underway.

A speeding truck ran into a marriage procession in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district fatally hitting 13 people, four of them children, while leaving 18 others injured, police said Tuesday.

A speeding truck ran into a marriage procession in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district fatally hitting 13 people, four of them children, while leaving 18 others injured, police said Tuesday. The accident happened near Ramdev temple on State Highway-113 Monday night when the truck, going to Banswara from Nimbahera, rammed into the marriage party moving on the roadside, Choti Sadri DSP Vijaypal Singh Sandhu said. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said he was deeply saddened to hear about the accident. "My heartfelt condolences to the grieved families. I pray for speedy recovery of injured people (sic)," he tweeted. Deeply saddened to hear about the tragic accident on NH-113 in Chhoti Sadri, #Pratapgarh in which many people have lost their lives and several have been injured. My heartfelt condolences to the grieved families. I pray for speedy recovery of injured people.#Rajasthan — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) February 18, 2019 × He said the injured were rushed to a government hospital in Choti Sadri and later on 15 of them, who were critically hurt, were referred to a facilities in Udaipur. Nine of the deceased have been identified as: Daulatram (60), Bharat (30), Shubham (5), Chotu (5), Dilip (11), Arjun (15), Ishu (19), Ramesh (30) and Karan (28), police said. The DSP said the truck driver apparently could not see the procession. He said the bodies are kept in a mortuary for postmortem and an investigation is underway.

At least 13 killed, 18 injured as truck runs into marriage procession in Rajasthan

The Rajasthan cabinet approved two amendments bills - Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2019 - to end the minimum educational qualification condition for contesting the local body elections in the state.

Both the bills will be introduced in the state assembly during the present session, read a statement.

During her tenure, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje had introduced an education criterion in 2015 which required a candidate to pass Class X for contesting municipal, zila parishad or panchayat samiti elections.

The cabinet has also decided to ask the state public service commission to extend the date of the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) main examination.

This came in wake of the agitation by the RAS aspirants, demanding the Congress-led government to extend the examination date.&nbsp;

The Rajasthan cabinet approved two amendments bills - Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2019 - to end the minimum educational qualification condition for contesting the local body elections in the state.

The Rajasthan cabinet approved two amendments bills - Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Rajasthan Municipalities (Amendment) Bill, 2019 - to end the minimum educational qualification condition for contesting the local body elections in the state. Both the bills will be introduced in the state assembly during the present session, read a statement. During her tenure, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje had introduced an education criterion in 2015 which required a candidate to pass Class X for contesting municipal, zila parishad or panchayat samiti elections. The cabinet has also decided to ask the state public service commission to extend the date of the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) main examination. This came in wake of the agitation by the RAS aspirants, demanding the Congress-led government to extend the examination date.

Rajasthan cabinet approves removal of education criteria for local body polls

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Friday the state cabinet has in principle decided to pass a resolution seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assembly.

"In principle, it was decided yesterday to pass a resolution in legislative assembly for 33 per cent reservation for women. Congress president wants that resolution is passed in five Congress-ruled states," Gehlot told reporters outside the assembly.

However, he did not say whether the resolution will be passed in this assembly session.

Gehlot said former Congress president Sonia Gandhi had been fighting for reservation for women in Parliament and legislative assemblies. After a long struggle, the bill was passed in Lok Sabha but it was pending in Rajya Sabha.

Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot said the bill granting reservation to women was introduced in parliament and Congress has been committed to the matter.

He said it is the party's intention to pass a resolution in state assemblies where Congress has formed government.

Though the matter is pending at the Centre, it was discussed yesterday in the state cabinet to form a consensus on it as it was one of the promises in the Congress election manifesto, he added.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Friday the state cabinet has in principle decided to pass a resolution seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assembly.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Friday the state cabinet has in principle decided to pass a resolution seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assembly. "In principle, it was decided yesterday to pass a resolution in legislative assembly for 33 per cent reservation for women. Congress president wants that resolution is passed in five Congress-ruled states," Gehlot told reporters outside the assembly. However, he did not say whether the resolution will be passed in this assembly session. Gehlot said former Congress president Sonia Gandhi had been fighting for reservation for women in Parliament and legislative assemblies. After a long struggle, the bill was passed in Lok Sabha but it was pending in Rajya Sabha. Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot said the bill granting reservation to women was introduced in parliament and Congress has been committed to the matter. He said it is the party's intention to pass a resolution in state assemblies where Congress has formed government. Though the matter is pending at the Centre, it was discussed yesterday in the state cabinet to form a consensus on it as it was one of the promises in the Congress election manifesto, he added.

Rajasthan Cabinet decides to pass resolution for 33% reservation for women in assembly

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010.

The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot.

According to the existing provisions for state services, one can now have access to the benefit of age exemption in the Rajasthan judicial services with amendments made in the existing rules.

As per the Rajasthan Judicial Service (Amendment) Rule 2018, the minimum age limit for general category in Rajasthan judicial service has been reduced from 23 to 21 years and maximum age limit is increased from 35 to 40 years.

Similarly, the benefit of age exemption has been given to differently-abled persons of various classes, including general category, OBC and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by 10, 13 and 15 years, respectively.

Simultaneously, it has been decided to give 1 per cent reservation to the Backward Classes in the Rajasthan Judicial Service.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010. The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010. The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot. According to the existing provisions for state services, one can now have access to the benefit of age exemption in the Rajasthan judicial services with amendments made in the existing rules. As per the Rajasthan Judicial Service (Amendment) Rule 2018, the minimum age limit for general category in Rajasthan judicial service has been reduced from 23 to 21 years and maximum age limit is increased from 35 to 40 years. Similarly, the benefit of age exemption has been given to differently-abled persons of various classes, including general category, OBC and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by 10, 13 and 15 years, respectively. Simultaneously, it has been decided to give 1 per cent reservation to the Backward Classes in the Rajasthan Judicial Service.

Gehlot approves amendments in Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, increases age cap for judicial service

Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh allocated portfolios to the council of ministers late on Wednesday night with the advice of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-takes-oath-as-12th-rajasthan-chief-minister-at-jaipurs-historic-albert-hall-184717">Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot</a> who has kept nine departments including the key finance and home with him.

Gehlot also has excise, planning, department of personnel, general administration department, information technology among others.

Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot was allocated the portfolios of Public works, Rural development, Panchayati Raj, Science and Technology and statistics, according to the orders issued by cabinet secretariat here.

Apart from the chief minister and deputy chief minister, 13 cabinet and 10 ministers of state were allocated portfolios.

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Portfolios have been allocated to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> Cabinet Ministers. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot keeps nine departments and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot gets five departments. <a href="https://t.co/OCQmMdg5Qs">pic.twitter.com/OCQmMdg5Qs</a>
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The cabinet expansion took place on Monday when 13 cabinet and 10 ministers of state took oath.

The move came after Gehlot and Pilot held meetings with Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Wednesday. The all-important distribution of portfolios had been pending over reported disagreement between Gehlot and his deputy on the allocation of key portfolios such as home and finance.

BD Kalla has been given energy, public health engineering, groundwater, art, culture and archaeology departments, while Shanti Dhariwal received urban development and housing, law and parliamentary affairs minister.

Parsadi Lal was named industry minister whereas Master Bhanwar Lal Meghwal is the social justice and empowerment minister.

Agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries departments are with Lal Chand Kataria while medical and health, information and public relations departments are with Raghu Sharma. Pramod Bhaya is mines minister.

Vishvendra Singh got tourism and devsthan department.

Harish Chaudhary was allocated revenue and Ramesh Chand Meena given food and civil supply. Anjana Udailal was made cooperative minister and was also given Indira Gandhi canal project department, Pratap Singh given transport and soldier welfare departments while Shale Mohammad given the portfolio of minority affairs and waqf.

Portfolios among the ministers of state were also allocated with Govind Singh Dotasara being made MoS education (independent charge), and was also given tourism and devsthan.

Mamta Bhupesh was given women and child development department (independent charge) along with minority affairs and waqf.

Arjun Singh Bamnia was given tribal area development department (independent charge) as well as industry and public enterprises departments.

Bhanwar Singh Bhati was allocated higher education (independent charge) and revenue while Sukhram Bishnoi got forest (independent charge), environment (independent charge), food and civil supply and consumer affairs.

Ashok Chandna got youth affairs and sports (independent charge), skill development (independent charge), transport and soldier welfare, Tikaram Jully got labour (independent charge), industries and boilers inspection (independent charge), cooperatives and Indira Gandhi canal project department.

Bhajan Lal Jatav has civil defence (independent charge), agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries, Rajendra Singh Yadav was allocated state motor garage (independent charge), language department, social justice and empowerment, calamity management and relief departments while Subhash Garg (RLD) was allocated technical education (independent charge), Sanskrit education (independent charge), medical and health, information and public relations department.

Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh allocated portfolios to the council of ministers late on Wednesday night with the advice of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot who has kept nine departments including the key finance and home with him.

Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh allocated portfolios to the council of ministers late on Wednesday night with the advice of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot who has kept nine departments including the key finance and home with him. Gehlot also has excise, planning, department of personnel, general administration department, information technology among others. Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot was allocated the portfolios of Public works, Rural development, Panchayati Raj, Science and Technology and statistics, according to the orders issued by cabinet secretariat here. Apart from the chief minister and deputy chief minister, 13 cabinet and 10 ministers of state were allocated portfolios. Portfolios have been allocated to the #Rajasthan Cabinet Ministers. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot keeps nine departments and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot gets five departments. pic.twitter.com/OCQmMdg5Qs — ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2018 × The cabinet expansion took place on Monday when 13 cabinet and 10 ministers of state took oath. The move came after Gehlot and Pilot held meetings with Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Wednesday. The all-important distribution of portfolios had been pending over reported disagreement between Gehlot and his deputy on the allocation of key portfolios such as home and finance. BD Kalla has been given energy, public health engineering, groundwater, art, culture and archaeology departments, while Shanti Dhariwal received urban development and housing, law and parliamentary affairs minister. Parsadi Lal was named industry minister whereas Master Bhanwar Lal Meghwal is the social justice and empowerment minister. Agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries departments are with Lal Chand Kataria while medical and health, information and public relations departments are with Raghu Sharma. Pramod Bhaya is mines minister. Vishvendra Singh got tourism and devsthan department. Harish Chaudhary was allocated revenue and Ramesh Chand Meena given food and civil supply. Anjana Udailal was made cooperative minister and was also given Indira Gandhi canal project department, Pratap Singh given transport and soldier welfare departments while Shale Mohammad given the portfolio of minority affairs and waqf. Portfolios among the ministers of state were also allocated with Govind Singh Dotasara being made MoS education (independent charge), and was also given tourism and devsthan. Mamta Bhupesh was given women and child development department (independent charge) along with minority affairs and waqf. Arjun Singh Bamnia was given tribal area development department (independent charge) as well as industry and public enterprises departments. Bhanwar Singh Bhati was allocated higher education (independent charge) and revenue while Sukhram Bishnoi got forest (independent charge), environment (independent charge), food and civil supply and consumer affairs. Ashok Chandna got youth affairs and sports (independent charge), skill development (independent charge), transport and soldier welfare, Tikaram Jully got labour (independent charge), industries and boilers inspection (independent charge), cooperatives and Indira Gandhi canal project department. Bhajan Lal Jatav has civil defence (independent charge), agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries, Rajendra Singh Yadav was allocated state motor garage (independent charge), language department, social justice and empowerment, calamity management and relief departments while Subhash Garg (RLD) was allocated technical education (independent charge), Sanskrit education (independent charge), medical and health, information and public relations department.

Portfolios allocated to ministers in Rajasthan; Gehlot keeps 9, Pilot 5

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot today swore in as the 12th Rajasthan Chief Minister of Rajasthan at a ceremony in Jaipur's Albert Hall while Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot took oath as Deputy Chief Minister.

Top Opposition and party leaders, including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh were present on the premises of Albert Hall to take part in the oath-taking ceremony.&nbsp;

Scores of people were present at the historic Albert Hall to witness the oath of new Rajasthan CM and his deputy. The leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others were among the VIP guests.

"What is the financial condition of the state is known by all. The BJP got a huge mandate in the last elections and people had expectations from Raje, but she was careless and passed five years in carelessness," said Ashok Gehlot.

Usually, the oath-taking ceremonies take place in the Raj Bhawan but former CM Vasundhara Raje changed the trend by organising her swearing-in at Janpath outside Rajasthan Assembly building.&nbsp;

The Congress had ousted Vasundhara Raje-led BJP from the state by winning 99 of the 199 seats in the December 7 Assembly elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot today swore in as the 12th Rajasthan Chief Minister of Rajasthan at a ceremony in Jaipur's Albert Hall while Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot took oath as Deputy Chief Minister.

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot today swore in as the 12th Rajasthan Chief Minister of Rajasthan at a ceremony in Jaipur's Albert Hall while Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot took oath as Deputy Chief Minister. Top Opposition and party leaders, including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh were present on the premises of Albert Hall to take part in the oath-taking ceremony. Scores of people were present at the historic Albert Hall to witness the oath of new Rajasthan CM and his deputy. The leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others were among the VIP guests. "What is the financial condition of the state is known by all. The BJP got a huge mandate in the last elections and people had expectations from Raje, but she was careless and passed five years in carelessness," said Ashok Gehlot. Usually, the oath-taking ceremonies take place in the Raj Bhawan but former CM Vasundhara Raje changed the trend by organising her swearing-in at Janpath outside Rajasthan Assembly building. The Congress had ousted Vasundhara Raje-led BJP from the state by winning 99 of the 199 seats in the December 7 Assembly elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Ashok Gehlot takes oath as Rajasthan CM, Sachin Pilot becomes deputy CM

It took three days for the Congress, after its electoral victory, to name a chief minister for Rajasthan. There was nothing exceptional in the delay; the Bharatiya Janata Party had consumed nearly a week before it could finalise chief ministers for Maharashtra and Haryana. It can be argued that unlike in the case of the two latter states, the chief ministerial faces for Rajasthan were evident to the party even as it went to polls.&nbsp;

True, but instead of easing the situation, this really made the task of selection more difficult.&nbsp;

Neither Ashok Gehlot nor Sachin Pilot was a pushover. The first had experience; he had been chief minister on two occasions. The second, as the state Congress chief, had revived the party after its defeat in the 2013 Assembly elections, and later in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls where the party drew a blank in the 26 seats.&nbsp;

As a veteran, Gehlot had the support of a number of senior leaders, both at the state and at the grassroots levels. Pilot has age on his side and he connects effortlessly with the aspirations of the youth; besides he is a fresh and dynamic face. &nbsp;

The last factor ought to have in normal situations worked in Pilot’s favour. After all, as Congress president, Rahul Gandhi has often spoken of giving the youth a push-up in the party and appointed several young faces in leadership spots across the country. But the Rajasthan case was not normal. Not only was the Gehlot camp formidable but there was also the looming Lok Sabha elections to be considered. The choice between the two leaders, therefore, boiled down to the prospect of 2019.&nbsp;

Matters became further complicated for the Congress leadership after Pilot’s camp decided on aggression on the streets. The young leader’s followers blocked roads and even indulged in some arson to demand that he be made the chief minister. This was posturing of an extreme kind. On the other hand, Gehlot’s street backers remained relatively subdued. Perhaps their leader had sent across a warning that such outpouring of support would be counter-productive to his cause. Or perhaps he was confident of emerging the winner in the end, because he knew that Sonia Gandhi backed him and would have the final say.&nbsp;

Most media accounts inform us that Pilot was Rahul Gandhi’s choice, but that UPA chairperson and former party chief Sonia Gandhi rooted for Gehlot. There was no way her opinion could be ignored. Her intervention is understandable. She is the Congress’s tallest leader. Besides, as UPA chairperson, she had a role to play, given that the Congress had to take the support of others to form a stable regime. But there was also the Priyanka Vadra factor. She too participated in the extensive deliberations and is said to have backed Pilot’s candidature. Gehlot’s success, thus raises the question: With Rahul Gandhi failing to get his candidate chosen, did he not demonstrate the fact that he is not the final voice in the party, even though he is the party chief? &nbsp;

Nobody knows for certain which of the two leaders enjoyed the majority support of the newly-elected MLAs. Some reports have it that Pilot had the upper hand. If that was indeed the case, then Gehlot was thrust on the MLAs as their leader. It will also make his task as chief minister a little more difficult. Ironically, the compromise formula worked out which led to his being chosen the Chief Minister, itself could hamper his functioning in the months to come. With Pilot being named the deputy chief minister, Gehlot will be looking over his shoulder all the time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the months ahead will demonstrate the workability of the arrangement, the fact remains that the Rajasthan government will have two power centres — one led by the chief minister and the other by his deputy, and friction cannot be ruled out. Perhaps what will make the two leaders work in tandem, at least for now, is the challenge of 2019. Both realise that their long-term prospects depend on the Congress’s performance in the state in the Lok Sabha polls. There will be another time and day to pursue their rivalry. But Pilot would know that his vote bank, especially the Gujjar community to which he belongs, will not be happy for too long with the present arrangement. His supporters feel let down, more so because they see the deputy chief ministership as nothing more than a sop, more so because Gehlot is unlikely to give his younger colleague the leeway that the latter must be hoping for in party and governance issues. &nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

It took three days for the Congress, after its electoral victory, to name a chief minister for Rajasthan. There was nothing exceptional in the delay; the Bharatiya Janata Party had consumed nearly a week before it could finalise chief ministers for Maharashtra and Haryana.

It took three days for the Congress, after its electoral victory, to name a chief minister for Rajasthan. There was nothing exceptional in the delay; the Bharatiya Janata Party had consumed nearly a week before it could finalise chief ministers for Maharashtra and Haryana. It can be argued that unlike in the case of the two latter states, the chief ministerial faces for Rajasthan were evident to the party even as it went to polls. True, but instead of easing the situation, this really made the task of selection more difficult. Neither Ashok Gehlot nor Sachin Pilot was a pushover. The first had experience; he had been chief minister on two occasions. The second, as the state Congress chief, had revived the party after its defeat in the 2013 Assembly elections, and later in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls where the party drew a blank in the 26 seats. As a veteran, Gehlot had the support of a number of senior leaders, both at the state and at the grassroots levels. Pilot has age on his side and he connects effortlessly with the aspirations of the youth; besides he is a fresh and dynamic face. The last factor ought to have in normal situations worked in Pilot’s favour. After all, as Congress president, Rahul Gandhi has often spoken of giving the youth a push-up in the party and appointed several young faces in leadership spots across the country. But the Rajasthan case was not normal. Not only was the Gehlot camp formidable but there was also the looming Lok Sabha elections to be considered. The choice between the two leaders, therefore, boiled down to the prospect of 2019. Matters became further complicated for the Congress leadership after Pilot’s camp decided on aggression on the streets. The young leader’s followers blocked roads and even indulged in some arson to demand that he be made the chief minister. This was posturing of an extreme kind. On the other hand, Gehlot’s street backers remained relatively subdued. Perhaps their leader had sent across a warning that such outpouring of support would be counter-productive to his cause. Or perhaps he was confident of emerging the winner in the end, because he knew that Sonia Gandhi backed him and would have the final say. Most media accounts inform us that Pilot was Rahul Gandhi’s choice, but that UPA chairperson and former party chief Sonia Gandhi rooted for Gehlot. There was no way her opinion could be ignored. Her intervention is understandable. She is the Congress’s tallest leader. Besides, as UPA chairperson, she had a role to play, given that the Congress had to take the support of others to form a stable regime. But there was also the Priyanka Vadra factor. She too participated in the extensive deliberations and is said to have backed Pilot’s candidature. Gehlot’s success, thus raises the question: With Rahul Gandhi failing to get his candidate chosen, did he not demonstrate the fact that he is not the final voice in the party, even though he is the party chief? Nobody knows for certain which of the two leaders enjoyed the majority support of the newly-elected MLAs. Some reports have it that Pilot had the upper hand. If that was indeed the case, then Gehlot was thrust on the MLAs as their leader. It will also make his task as chief minister a little more difficult. Ironically, the compromise formula worked out which led to his being chosen the Chief Minister, itself could hamper his functioning in the months to come. With Pilot being named the deputy chief minister, Gehlot will be looking over his shoulder all the time. While the months ahead will demonstrate the workability of the arrangement, the fact remains that the Rajasthan government will have two power centres — one led by the chief minister and the other by his deputy, and friction cannot be ruled out. Perhaps what will make the two leaders work in tandem, at least for now, is the challenge of 2019. Both realise that their long-term prospects depend on the Congress’s performance in the state in the Lok Sabha polls. There will be another time and day to pursue their rivalry. But Pilot would know that his vote bank, especially the Gujjar community to which he belongs, will not be happy for too long with the present arrangement. His supporters feel let down, more so because they see the deputy chief ministership as nothing more than a sop, more so because Gehlot is unlikely to give his younger colleague the leeway that the latter must be hoping for in party and governance issues. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Rajasthan government will have two power centres

Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-lists-out-priorities-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-ahead-of-swearing-in-184140"> Madhya Pradesh</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-ashok-gehlot-and-sachin-pilot-to-take-oath-as-chief-minister-dy-cm-respectively-on-december-17-184105">Rajasthan</a>.

Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government.

ANI further added that Mamata Banerjee will send a representative in the ceremony as her mother is unwell.

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Sources:Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal, among other opposition leaders will attend oath ceremony in Rajasthan &amp; Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Mamata Banerjee will send a representative because her mother is unwell <a href="https://t.co/EJAVvLaR5m">pic.twitter.com/EJAVvLaR5m</a>
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The oath ceremony of the newly elected Congress government in the two states will take place on December 17.

The Congress has appointed Kamal Nath as the new chief minister of Madhya Pradesh and Ashok Gehlot for Rajasthan.

A similar get together of opposition leaders was seen in the swearing-in ceremony of Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy.

Opposition leaders, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Chandrababu Naidu, Mamata Banerjee, Tejashwi Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sharad Pawar were present in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-hd-kumaraswamy-takes-oath-as-cm-139225">oath ceremony of HD Kumaraswamy</a>.&nbsp;

Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government.

Leaders of various opposition parties are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Citing sources news agency ANI said that leaders of various opposition parties including Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal are expected to show their presence in the swearing in of the new Congress government. ANI further added that Mamata Banerjee will send a representative in the ceremony as her mother is unwell. Sources:Sharad Pawar, Sharad Yadav, MK Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Arvind Kejriwal, among other opposition leaders will attend oath ceremony in Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh on December 17. Mamata Banerjee will send a representative because her mother is unwell pic.twitter.com/EJAVvLaR5m — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × The oath ceremony of the newly elected Congress government in the two states will take place on December 17. The Congress has appointed Kamal Nath as the new chief minister of Madhya Pradesh and Ashok Gehlot for Rajasthan. A similar get together of opposition leaders was seen in the swearing-in ceremony of Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy. Opposition leaders, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, Chandrababu Naidu, Mamata Banerjee, Tejashwi Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sharad Pawar were present in the oath ceremony of HD Kumaraswamy.

Opposition leaders to attend oath ceremony of Congress CMs in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

The oath ceremony of Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan will take place on December 17 after which the cabinet will be inducted, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Congress party on Friday named veteran leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-named-chief-minister-of-rajasthan-pilot-to-be-deputy-cm-184061">Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister</a>. Sachin Pilot will be the deputy chief minister of Rajasthan.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by state party observer KC Venugopal.&nbsp;

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot as Rajasthan CM &amp; Dy CM respectively in Jaipur at 10 am. He will also attend the oath ceremony of Kamal Nath as Madhya Pradesh CM at 1:30 pm on the same day <a href="https://t.co/qYUQAefrSE">https://t.co/qYUQAefrSE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073595764151066624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Venugopal said the decision was taken by party President Rahul Gandhi who will be present during the oath-taking ceremony.&nbsp;

''Congress President Rahul Gandhi has decided to appoint Ashok Gehlot Ji as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan. Sachin Pilot will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Venugopal. &nbsp;

According to reports, Congress President Rahul Gandhi will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot as Rajasthan CM and Deputy CM respectively in Jaipur at 10 am on December 17 after which he will head to attend the oath ceremony of Kamal Nath as Madhya Pradesh CM at 1:30 pm.&nbsp;

The oath ceremony of Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan will take place on December 17 after which the cabinet will be inducted, news agency ANI reported.

The oath ceremony of Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan will take place on December 17 after which the cabinet will be inducted, news agency ANI reported. Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister. Sachin Pilot will be the deputy chief minister of Rajasthan. The announcement was made by state party observer KC Venugopal. Congress President Rahul Gandhi will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot as Rajasthan CM & Dy CM respectively in Jaipur at 10 am. He will also attend the oath ceremony of Kamal Nath as Madhya Pradesh CM at 1:30 pm on the same day https://t.co/qYUQAefrSE — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2018 × Venugopal said the decision was taken by party President Rahul Gandhi who will be present during the oath-taking ceremony. ''Congress President Rahul Gandhi has decided to appoint Ashok Gehlot Ji as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan. Sachin Pilot will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Venugopal. According to reports, Congress President Rahul Gandhi will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot as Rajasthan CM and Deputy CM respectively in Jaipur at 10 am on December 17 after which he will head to attend the oath ceremony of Kamal Nath as Madhya Pradesh CM at 1:30 pm.

Rajasthan: Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot to take oath as Chief Minister, Dy CM on December 17

Senior Congress leader and Rajasthan observer KC Venugopal, who met Congress party president Rahul Gandhi late on Thursday evening, said that there would be a final decision on who would assume the office of chief minister in Rajasthan on Friday morning.

"Rahul Gandhi needs some more time for deliberations and a final decision. No meeting (has been scheduled) for tomorrow. In the morning there will be a decision," Venugopal told reporters in the national capital after meeting the Congress chief yesterday.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-two-most-powerful-warriors-are-patience-and-time-tweets-rahul-as-suspense-over-cms-continues-183835">As suspense over CMs builds, Rahul tweets: 'The two most powerful warriors are...'</a>

In addition to Venugopal, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-meets-with-rajasthan-cm-hopefuls-its-advantage-gehlot-183738">Ashok Gehlot </a>and Sachin Pilot, who are considered as the front-runners for the post of chief minister, and Congress leader Avinash Pandey, were also present in the meeting.

Earlier on Thursday, supporters of Pilot, who is perceived to be the one who slogged in the trenches for five years to elevate the Congress from a 21-seat winning party in 2013 to 99 this time around, demonstrated in Rajasthan's Karauli district, blocking traffic and raising slogans for Pilot's appointment as the chief minister.

In the recently-concluded Assembly elections in Rajasthan, the Congress bagged 99 seats out of 199, while their key opponent- the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- managed to secure 73.

Among the remaining seats, six went to Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) while 21 went to independent candidates.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader and Rajasthan observer KC Venugopal, who met Congress party president Rahul Gandhi late on Thursday evening, said that there would be a final decision on who would assume the office of chief minister in Rajasthan on Friday morning.

Senior Congress leader and Rajasthan observer KC Venugopal, who met Congress party president Rahul Gandhi late on Thursday evening, said that there would be a final decision on who would assume the office of chief minister in Rajasthan on Friday morning. "Rahul Gandhi needs some more time for deliberations and a final decision. No meeting (has been scheduled) for tomorrow. In the morning there will be a decision," Venugopal told reporters in the national capital after meeting the Congress chief yesterday. Also read: As suspense over CMs builds, Rahul tweets: 'The two most powerful warriors are...' In addition to Venugopal, Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, who are considered as the front-runners for the post of chief minister, and Congress leader Avinash Pandey, were also present in the meeting. Earlier on Thursday, supporters of Pilot, who is perceived to be the one who slogged in the trenches for five years to elevate the Congress from a 21-seat winning party in 2013 to 99 this time around, demonstrated in Rajasthan's Karauli district, blocking traffic and raising slogans for Pilot's appointment as the chief minister. In the recently-concluded Assembly elections in Rajasthan, the Congress bagged 99 seats out of 199, while their key opponent- the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- managed to secure 73. Among the remaining seats, six went to Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) while 21 went to independent candidates.

Congress leader Venugopal to announce final decision on Rajasthan CM today

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/matter-on-rafael-deal-has-been-thouroughly-through-the-supreme-court-laid-to-rest-sitharaman-184062">Falsehood has a short life: Arun Jaitley after Supreme Court's judgement on Rafale deal</a>

Hours after a three-judge Supreme Court bench said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-named-chief-minister-of-rajasthan-pilot-to-be-deputy-cm-184061">Ashok Gehlot named </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-named-chief-minister-of-rajasthan-pilot-to-be-deputy-cm-184061">chief</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-named-chief-minister-of-rajasthan-pilot-to-be-deputy-cm-184061"> minister of Rajasthan, Pilot to be deputy CM</a>

Bringing an end to the three-day impasse over the question of leadership in Rajasthan, Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-inaugural-committee-under-criminal-investigation-over-fund-wrongdoing-report-184063">Trump's inaugural committee under investigation over fund wrongdoing: Report</a>

President Donald Trump's 2017 inaugural committee is being investigated by federal prosecutors in New York over allegations that it misspent funds or accepted donations in exchange for access to his administration, according to a media report.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-accusations-against-russian-butina-absolutely-unfounded-kremlin-184054">US accusations against Russian Butina 'absolutely unfounded': Kremlin</a>

Kremlin on Friday held the accusations made by Maria Butina, the first Russian to be convicted of working to influence US policy during the 2016 presidential race as "absolutely unfounded".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-truth-always-triumphs-supreme-court-order-exposes-rahul-gandhi-bjp-chief-amit-shah-184021">Amit Shah slams Rahul </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-truth-always-triumphs-supreme-court-order-exposes-rahul-gandhi-bjp-chief-amit-shah-184021">Gandhi,</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-truth-always-triumphs-supreme-court-order-exposes-rahul-gandhi-bjp-chief-amit-shah-184021"> says Rafale deal verdict is </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-truth-always-triumphs-supreme-court-order-exposes-rahul-gandhi-bjp-chief-amit-shah-184021">slap</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-truth-always-triumphs-supreme-court-order-exposes-rahul-gandhi-bjp-chief-amit-shah-184021"> on politics of lies</a>

Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah on Friday welcomed Supreme Court's order on the Rafale deal saying that the "truth has won". He also slammed Congress party and its chief Rahul Gandhi saying that people were being misled by unfortunately the country's oldest party.

&nbsp;

Falsehood has a short life: Arun Jaitley after Supreme Court's judgement on Rafale deal Hours after a three-judge Supreme Court bench said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''.

Falsehood has a short life: Arun Jaitley after Supreme Court's judgement on Rafale deal Hours after a three-judge Supreme Court bench said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''. Ashok Gehlot named chief minister of Rajasthan, Pilot to be deputy CM Bringing an end to the three-day impasse over the question of leadership in Rajasthan, Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister. Trump's inaugural committee under investigation over fund wrongdoing: Report President Donald Trump's 2017 inaugural committee is being investigated by federal prosecutors in New York over allegations that it misspent funds or accepted donations in exchange for access to his administration, according to a media report. US accusations against Russian Butina 'absolutely unfounded': Kremlin Kremlin on Friday held the accusations made by Maria Butina, the first Russian to be convicted of working to influence US policy during the 2016 presidential race as "absolutely unfounded". Amit Shah slams Rahul Gandhi, says Rafale deal verdict is slap on politics of lies Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah on Friday welcomed Supreme Court's order on the Rafale deal saying that the "truth has won". He also slammed Congress party and its chief Rahul Gandhi saying that people were being misled by unfortunately the country's oldest party.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Bringing an end to the three-day impasse over the question of leadership in Rajasthan, Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister. &nbsp;

Sachin Pilot will be the deputy chief minister of the state.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by party observer for the state K.C. Venugopal,&nbsp;All India Congress Committee observer for Rajasthan.&nbsp;

Venugopal said the decision was taken by party President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

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Rajasthan Chief Minister designate Ashok Gehlot and Deputy Chief Minister designate Sachin Pilot at AICC headquarters in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/lwCnOcUayj">pic.twitter.com/lwCnOcUayj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073531322113642496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''Congress President Rahul Gandhi has decided to appoint Ashok Gehlot Ji as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan. Sachin Pilot will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Venugopal. &nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashokgehlot51</a> a stalwart of the Congress party has been elected CM of Rajasthan. We wish him the best as he takes on this new appointment with vigour, sincerity &amp; a commitment to our democratic values. <a href="https://t.co/eMvwuZYMM9">pic.twitter.com/eMvwuZYMM9</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1073529175439376386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''I would like to thank Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other legislators for taking this decision to make Ashok Gehlot Ji the Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Pilot.&nbsp;

Bringing an end to the three-day impasse over the question of leadership in Rajasthan, Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister.

Bringing an end to the three-day impasse over the question of leadership in Rajasthan, Congress party on Friday named veteran leader Ashok Gehlot as the state's new chief minister. Sachin Pilot will be the deputy chief minister of the state. The announcement was made by party observer for the state K.C. Venugopal, All India Congress Committee observer for Rajasthan. Venugopal said the decision was taken by party President Rahul Gandhi. Rajasthan Chief Minister designate Ashok Gehlot and Deputy Chief Minister designate Sachin Pilot at AICC headquarters in Delhi pic.twitter.com/lwCnOcUayj — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2018 × ''Congress President Rahul Gandhi has decided to appoint Ashok Gehlot Ji as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan. Sachin Pilot will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Venugopal. .@ashokgehlot51 a stalwart of the Congress party has been elected CM of Rajasthan. We wish him the best as he takes on this new appointment with vigour, sincerity & a commitment to our democratic values. pic.twitter.com/eMvwuZYMM9 — Congress (@INCIndia) December 14, 2018 × ''I would like to thank Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other legislators for taking this decision to make Ashok Gehlot Ji the Chief Minister of Rajasthan,'' said Pilot.

Ashok Gehlot named chief minister of Rajasthan, Pilot to be deputy CM

After several rounds of discussions on selecting the chief minister of Rajasthan, top contenders for the post, Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, reached the residence of party chief Rahul Gandhi on Friday for a final settlement on the issue.

According to sources, both Gehlot and Pilot were called by the Congress president for an amicable settlement to the issue amid a clear fight between the old and the young guard in the party.

Sources said former Union minister and party leader from Rajasthan Jitendra Singh met Pilot earlier in the day and then met Gandhi.

Party's central observer for Rajasthan K C Venugopal and AICC general secretary in-charge of party affairs in the state Avinash Pande were also present at Gandhi's residence during the discussions.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was present during the resolution of the issue in Madhya Pradesh between Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia, was present at Gandhi's residence Friday, though she left ahead of a meeting with Gehlot and Pilot.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, when asked about the differences within the Rajasthan unit, denied it and said a due process of consultation was on.

"There is no dispute or difference within the Congress units on chief minister's post in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh," he told reporters here.

"Be it Rajasthan or Chhattisgarh, a due process of discussions is on among the leaders so that we can form a good government. Madhya Pradesh has been decided and chief minister's issue will be decided for Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in a day or two also," he said.

Sources said the issue would be resolved Friday itself and the announcement would be made at the Congress Legislature Party meeting.

Meanwhile, there was sloganeering in favour of Pilot by some of his supporters outside Gandhi's residence when the meeting took place.&nbsp;

After several rounds of discussions on selecting the chief minister of Rajasthan, top contenders for the post, Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, reached the residence of party chief Rahul Gandhi on Friday for a final settlement on the issue.

After several rounds of discussions on selecting the chief minister of Rajasthan, top contenders for the post, Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, reached the residence of party chief Rahul Gandhi on Friday for a final settlement on the issue. According to sources, both Gehlot and Pilot were called by the Congress president for an amicable settlement to the issue amid a clear fight between the old and the young guard in the party. Sources said former Union minister and party leader from Rajasthan Jitendra Singh met Pilot earlier in the day and then met Gandhi. Party's central observer for Rajasthan K C Venugopal and AICC general secretary in-charge of party affairs in the state Avinash Pande were also present at Gandhi's residence during the discussions. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was present during the resolution of the issue in Madhya Pradesh between Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia, was present at Gandhi's residence Friday, though she left ahead of a meeting with Gehlot and Pilot. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, when asked about the differences within the Rajasthan unit, denied it and said a due process of consultation was on. "There is no dispute or difference within the Congress units on chief minister's post in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh," he told reporters here. "Be it Rajasthan or Chhattisgarh, a due process of discussions is on among the leaders so that we can form a good government. Madhya Pradesh has been decided and chief minister's issue will be decided for Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in a day or two also," he said. Sources said the issue would be resolved Friday itself and the announcement would be made at the Congress Legislature Party meeting. Meanwhile, there was sloganeering in favour of Pilot by some of his supporters outside Gandhi's residence when the meeting took place.

Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot meet Rahul Gandhi for another round of talks on Rajasthan CM post

Frontrunners of a chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-assembly-elections-2018-congress-to-stake-claim-on-government-in-rajasthan-says-pradesh-congress-committee-president-sachin-pilot-183417">Sachin Pilot</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-magician-at-heart-could-become-rajasthan-cm-183349">Ashok Gehlot </a>arrived in New Delhi today to meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

After the meeting, Rahul Gandhi is expected to take a call on the next chief minister of Rajasthan where the Congress won a whopping 99 of 199 Assembly seats, dethroning Vasundhara Raje-led Bharatiya Janata Party.

Pilot on Wednesday had informed that the decision on the chief ministership would be taken on Thursday by the party president Rahul Gandhi and other leaders of the party.

Speaking to the media, Ashok Gehlot said that "observers have taken everyone's opinion, in a peaceful way. A discussion will be held and the decision will be taken &nbsp;today."

"Observers have taken everyone's opinion, in a peaceful way. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had to take a decision (on Rajasthan CM candidate), observers have arrived in Delhi. A discussion will be held and the decision will be taken today."

The Congress president will first meet the party observers A K Antony for Madhya Pradesh and KC Venugopal for Rajasthan before meeting those in the race.

The observers had already held discussions with newly-elected party MLAs on Wednesday and would give their inputs to Gandhi on who the legislators want to be as their chief ministers.

Using an internal messaging platform for the party workers, Gandhi sent out to party workers a pre-recorded audio message seeking their feedback for selection of the chief minister in their respective states.

&nbsp;

Frontrunners of a chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot arrived in New Delhi today to meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi. After the meeting, Rahul Gandhi is expected to take a call on the next chief minister of Rajasthan where the Congress won a whopping 99 of 199 Assembly seats, dethroning Vasundhara Raje-led Bharatiya Janata Party.

Frontrunners of a chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot arrived in New Delhi today to meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi. After the meeting, Rahul Gandhi is expected to take a call on the next chief minister of Rajasthan where the Congress won a whopping 99 of 199 Assembly seats, dethroning Vasundhara Raje-led Bharatiya Janata Party. Pilot on Wednesday had informed that the decision on the chief ministership would be taken on Thursday by the party president Rahul Gandhi and other leaders of the party. Speaking to the media, Ashok Gehlot said that "observers have taken everyone's opinion, in a peaceful way. A discussion will be held and the decision will be taken today." "Observers have taken everyone's opinion, in a peaceful way. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had to take a decision (on Rajasthan CM candidate), observers have arrived in Delhi. A discussion will be held and the decision will be taken today." The Congress president will first meet the party observers A K Antony for Madhya Pradesh and KC Venugopal for Rajasthan before meeting those in the race. The observers had already held discussions with newly-elected party MLAs on Wednesday and would give their inputs to Gandhi on who the legislators want to be as their chief ministers. Using an internal messaging platform for the party workers, Gandhi sent out to party workers a pre-recorded audio message seeking their feedback for selection of the chief minister in their respective states.

Rajasthan frontrunners Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot to meet Rahul Gandhi today

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday held one-on-one meetings with Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, the two chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-congress-cms-party-mlas-say-rahul-will-decide-183569">before taking a final call</a> on who would head government in the desert state.&nbsp;

Gandhi also held deliberations with the party's central observer KC Venugopal and party in-charge of Rajasthan Avinash Pande and took inputs from them to ascertain the views of the Congress' newly elected legislators on the matter, sources said.&nbsp;

The Congress president gave separate hearings to both Pilot and Gehlot, one representing the young face of the party and the other, the old guard.&nbsp;

The individual meetings lasted around 10-15 minutes each and neither Gehlot nor Pilot talked to the media after the meeting.&nbsp;

There has been hectic lobbying for the top post and both leaders have staked their claims for the post of chief minister, sources said.&nbsp;

Pilot's supporters raised slogans outside Gandhi's office. They vociferously voiced their demand on Wednesday evening too when state legislators were meeting in the Rajasthan capital.&nbsp;

Gandhi sought the views of party workers through an internal messaging system with a pre-recorded message asking them to send their views directly to him through the application.

A decision on the post of chief minister will be taken by this evening to enable the oath-taking soon. The Congress has already staked its claim for government formation in Rajasthan, even though it fell slightly short of the simple majority mark. PTI&nbsp;

 
Advantage Gehlot 
Two-time chief minister Ashok Gehlot appears to be emerging as the favourite for the chief minister's post in Rajasthan, after party chief Rahul Gandhi held hectic deliberations with senior leaders including him.

It is advantage Gehlot, sources said, after he came out of Gandhi's residence.

Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot is also a strong contender for the post. However, Gehlot looks set to return as chief minister of the western state for the third time.

Gandhi also held a separate meeting with Pilot, prior to meeting Gehlot.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday held one-on-one meetings with Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, the two chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, before taking a final call on who would head government in the desert state.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday held one-on-one meetings with Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, the two chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, before taking a final call on who would head government in the desert state. Gandhi also held deliberations with the party's central observer KC Venugopal and party in-charge of Rajasthan Avinash Pande and took inputs from them to ascertain the views of the Congress' newly elected legislators on the matter, sources said. The Congress president gave separate hearings to both Pilot and Gehlot, one representing the young face of the party and the other, the old guard. The individual meetings lasted around 10-15 minutes each and neither Gehlot nor Pilot talked to the media after the meeting. There has been hectic lobbying for the top post and both leaders have staked their claims for the post of chief minister, sources said. Pilot's supporters raised slogans outside Gandhi's office. They vociferously voiced their demand on Wednesday evening too when state legislators were meeting in the Rajasthan capital. Gandhi sought the views of party workers through an internal messaging system with a pre-recorded message asking them to send their views directly to him through the application. A decision on the post of chief minister will be taken by this evening to enable the oath-taking soon. The Congress has already staked its claim for government formation in Rajasthan, even though it fell slightly short of the simple majority mark. PTI Advantage Gehlot Two-time chief minister Ashok Gehlot appears to be emerging as the favourite for the chief minister's post in Rajasthan, after party chief Rahul Gandhi held hectic deliberations with senior leaders including him. It is advantage Gehlot, sources said, after he came out of Gandhi's residence. Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot is also a strong contender for the post. However, Gehlot looks set to return as chief minister of the western state for the third time. Gandhi also held a separate meeting with Pilot, prior to meeting Gehlot.

Rahul meets with Rajasthan CM hopefuls; it's advantage Gehlot

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