Jaipur, June 12 (IANS) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has endorsed Shiv Sena(UBT) leader Sanjay Raut’s suggestion that regional parties, which originated from Congress, should reunite with the party and collectively rally behind Rahul Gandhi’s leadership.

Speaking on the need for greater opposition unity, Gehlot said the current political moment demands a united fight to protect democracy.

“There is substance in what Sanjay Raut has said. The time has come to fight to save democracy. When all of us are on the battlefield to protect democratic values, I support his view that those parties which emerged after separating from the Congress should consider rejoining and wholeheartedly accept Rahul Gandhi as their leader,” Gehlot said.

He argued that the INDIA bloc must project a clear and unambiguous leadership face before the country.

“There should be a clear message across the nation that Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the INDIA bloc. People see a direct political contest between Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi. If all opposition parties jointly and unequivocally accept Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, the voting pattern in the country can change significantly,” he said.

Gehlot clarified that his remarks were not directed at parties that have historically maintained independent political identities.

“Shiv Sena has always been a separate party. CPI(M) and CPI have also followed their own political paths. We cannot make such a claim upon them. Similarly, parties like the Samajwadi Party have their own origins and traditions. We have no complaint against them. However, parties that were formed after breaking away from Congress should seriously reflect on the larger national interest at this critical juncture,” he said.

Expressing concern over the state of democratic institutions, Gehlot said, “I believe democracy in this country is under serious threat. The situation is deeply concerning, and safeguarding democratic values should be the foremost priority for all political forces.”

Addressing the youth, Gehlot urged students and young citizens to actively participate in public life and politics based on ideological conviction. “I repeatedly appeal to the younger generation to enter politics on the basis of ideology. Whether you are a student or a young professional, this is your time to participate. Understand different political ideologies, and join whichever party you believe serves the national interest. We may differ politically, but what matters is your involvement in the democratic process.”

He added that future generations would be judged by the role they played during pivotal moments in the country’s history. “History will ask each one of us what role we played in our time. Do not shy away from that responsibility. Come forward, participate in politics, and contribute to strengthening democracy and the nation,” Gehlot said.

–IANS

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