Jaipur, April 13 (IANS) Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday launched a sharp counterattack over remarks made by BJP State President Madan Rathore regarding Vasundhara Raje. ​

Gehlot asserted that Raje did not need to offer any clarification, as people clearly understand the intent and context of her statements. He added that while Raje’s remarks may have been unnecessary, they remain her prerogative.​

“Vasundhara Raje says one thing, while Madan Rathore says something entirely different. This reflects the internal condition of their party,” he remarked.​

Taking a swipe at the BJP, Gehlot said the party often accuses Congress of infighting, but the reality is quite the opposite. ​

“Their internal discord is now out in the open. You can see who is saying what; their situation has spilt onto the streets,” he said.​

Gehlot further described Rathore as personally decent and pragmatic, but suggested that party pressure often leads to unpredictable public statements.​

Reiterating political confidence, Gehlot said Rajasthan has a pattern of alternating governments and claimed that the Congress is set to return to power in the next election.​

Gehlot repeated Rathore’s comment and said, “Will Vasundhara Raje become Chief Minister every time… making such a statement was inappropriate for a state-level leader.” ​

He argued that remarks of this nature should be reserved for senior national figures like PM Modi or the BJP’s national president. “In any case, it is an internal matter of their party,” he added.​

Gehlot reiterated that there was no need for Raje to defend herself, emphasising that the public understands her stance.​

“These are the same people who accuse Congress of internal conflict, yet it is the BJP that is facing visible disarray,” he said, pointing to contradictory statements within the party as evidence of internal instability.​

Responding to Rathore’s allegation that he was supporting Pakistan’s role in mediating the US–Israel–Iran tensions, Gehlot clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted. He said India missed an opportunity to play a constructive global role.​

“India has a unique moral standing in the world, a nation that advocates peace, brotherhood, and non-violence. It should have taken the initiative for mediation,” he said.​

Gehlot expressed concern over Pakistan being discussed as a mediator. ​

“When a country widely seen as promoting terrorism speaks of peace, it is naturally distressing,” he said.​

He emphasised that many nations expected India to step forward in the situation. ​

Referring to historical context, he invoked Indira Gandhi, noting that Pakistan was divided during her tenure, yet today it is being discussed as a peace broker.​

“At a time when global attention is on tensions between Israel and Iran, countries are looking for leadership in peace efforts. My point was simply that India should have been in that position,” Gehlot concluded.​

–IANS

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