Ashok Gehlot Has Always Been Affectionate Towards Me: Sachin Pilot

Rajasthan , June 12 : Senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Thursday sought to tone down recent criticism from former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, stating that the veteran leader has consistently shown him warmth and goodwill. Pilot emphasized that internal differences should not overshadow party unity and reiterated the need for Congress leaders to stay together to strengthen the organisation and take on the BJP.

Speaking to reporters in Dausa, Pilot responded cautiously to Gehlot’s remarks, avoiding any direct confrontation. He noted that Gehlot had expressed similar personal affection for him as he does for his son, Vaibhav Gehlot, adding that all Congress members are committed workers of the party.

The exchange comes in the backdrop of Gehlot’s recent comments regarding the political developments of September 2022, which he described not as a rebellion against the party leadership but as opposition from MLAs to Pilot’s potential elevation as Chief Minister. Gehlot had also claimed that several MLAs aligned with him would accept any leadership choice made by the Congress high command except Pilot, citing lingering resentment over the 2020 political crisis.

Responding indirectly, Pilot stressed that Congress leaders across the country are working in coordination to promote unity and challenge the BJP’s governance. He referred to Rahul Gandhi’s call for spreading “mohabbat ki dukan,” saying party workers are collectively advancing that message. Pilot further expressed confidence that the Congress remains strong in Rajasthan and continues to serve as an example for the rest of the country.