Ashok Gehlot Calls for Action Against Election Commission Chief Amid Allegations of Misconduct
Ashok Gehlot criticizes the Election Commission and demands action against its chief, citing concerns over recent electoral irregularities in Rajasthan.
Jaipur, September 24 (Daily Kiran) : Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has launched a verbal assault on the Election Commission and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, demanding accountability regarding the recent elections in the state. He referenced concerns raised by Rahul Gandhi about the Special Investigation Report (SIR) and called for action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Gehlot pointed out that Gandhi has been vocal about alleged irregularities in the elections for nearly a year. He noted that complaints from two members of the Election Commission, who have raised objections 14 times about misconduct, have been ignored, allowing the electoral process to continue unimpeded.
He emphasized the need for responsible parties to face consequences, reiterating his demand for Gyanesh Kumar‘s dismissal. Gehlot warned that the current political climate poses a significant threat to democracy and the integrity of the nation, urging young people to engage with these pressing issues.
In response to Chief Minister Sharma’s assertion that police were not utilized during the elections, Gehlot questioned how those who allegedly faced police intimidation would interpret such statements. He accused the administration of employing tactics such as detaining individuals, filing false charges, and issuing threats during the electoral process. Gehlot claimed that some police officers acted under pressure, suggesting lower-level officials were coerced into following directives from senior authorities.
He also raised concerns about the police chief’s recent leave, though he admitted he was unaware of the reasons behind it. Gehlot insisted that Sharma should clarify whether he had discussions with district collectors and superintendents of police regarding the elections, as no clear denial had been made by the Chief Minister.
If the complaints regarding police involvement are unfounded, Gehlot argued that Sharma should have categorically denied any such discussions with officials. He forecasted that the public would respond appropriately when the time comes. Citing Bharatpur as an example, he noted that the BJP secured 20 out of 65 seats, allegedly due to pressure on Congress-backed and independent candidates, with one independent forced to withdraw from the race under threat, benefiting the BJP.
