Jaipur, July 18: Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot sharply criticized the Bhajanlal Sharma government on Friday for the delay in Panchayat and urban body elections. He referenced a stern remark from the Rajasthan High Court, which stated, “If the commission cannot conduct elections, let us know, and judges will hold them.”
Gehlot emphasized that this comment from the court highlights a significant administrative failure within the state. He described the situation as embarrassing for the BJP-led state government.
During the hearing on Thursday, the High Court expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in the election process, stating that if the Rajasthan State Election Commission was unable to conduct elections, the judges would step in. Responding to this remark, Gehlot accused the state government of showcasing a major administrative failure.
In a post on X, Gehlot stated, “What could be more embarrassing for the state government than the High Court having to say, ‘If the commission cannot conduct elections, let us know, and judges will hold them’? This is proof of the Rajasthan government’s significant administrative failure.”
He also mentioned arguments presented in the High Court, which indicated that the State Election Commission had sent six letters to the Panchayati Raj Department requesting information related to reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and women, but had not received the necessary information.
Gehlot alleged that this shows the Panchayati Raj Department is operating under government pressure and that the Rajasthan government is not interested in conducting timely elections.
He stated, “The government is undermining constitutional institutions.” The former Chief Minister also accused the Rajasthan government of repeatedly ignoring court directives and disrespecting constitutional principles and the judiciary.
He added, “A government that fails to respect the judiciary and obstructs democratic processes has no moral or constitutional right to remain in power. Such a situation is extremely detrimental to democracy.”
During Thursday’s hearing, the Rajasthan High Court directed the state government and the State Election Commission to present a roadmap for conducting the Panchayat and urban body elections. The court also instructed the government to keep the OBC Commission’s report on record and complete the reservation process by July 20. Additionally, relevant officials were directed to appear in person at the next hearing to provide complete information regarding the election schedule.
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