Ashok Gehlot Criticizes FIRs Against Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, Raises Alarm on Democracy

Jaipur, October 7 (Daily Kiran) : Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has voiced his concerns regarding the deteriorating state of democracy in India following the registration of FIRs against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Speaking to the media in Jaipur, Gehlot condemned the recent political tensions that have escalated in Delhi.

He launched a sharp critique against the central government, questioning the sustainability of democracy in India amid escalating authoritarian actions. Gehlot drew parallels with political systems in countries like China, Russia, and North Korea, suggesting that India’s democratic framework is being similarly undermined.

Responding to journalists, Gehlot remarked that such actions by the government and administration were not unexpected, adding that “they can do anything.” He highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that the FIRs against prominent opposition leaders like Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, along with the inappropriate conduct of police towards Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal, reflect a troubling direction for the country.

Gehlot emphasized that this issue transcends political parties or individual leaders, representing a significant concern for all citizens, particularly the youth and future generations. He also addressed recent protests linked to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, stating that these demonstrations aimed to convey a message to the central government. Nearly 300 MPs attempted to meet with the Election Commission but were allegedly denied access to officials.

He questioned why Election Commission officials were unwilling to meet with the opposition’s INDIA bloc MPs. Drawing from his parliamentary experience, Gehlot noted that the Parliament complex is a highly secure environment where he has worked for nearly two decades. He suggested that if the three election commissioners had met with the INDIA bloc MPs, it would have provided a transparent opportunity to address allegations of “vote theft” and issues related to special intensive reviews.

Instead, he accused the government of missing this opportunity, leading to the detention of leaders and subsequent FIRs against them. Gehlot expressed his alarm over the gradual weakening of democratic institutions in the country, warning that the situation is heading in a “dangerous direction.”

He also questioned the lack of public statements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah regarding these developments. Gehlot insisted that, given the ongoing protests across the nation, the top leadership’s response and accountability should be evident.

Without concrete responses from the Prime Minister and Home Minister, serious questions arise about the functioning of the current political system, Gehlot concluded.