Daijiworld Media Network – Jaipur
Jaipur, Jun 17: A war of words has erupted between Rajasthan’s ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, with sharp exchanges over constitutional values, upcoming local body elections, and internal political dynamics.
Rajasthan Urban Development and Housing Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra came down heavily on the Congress on Monday, accusing the grand old party of repeatedly violating the Constitution in the past. “The very party that now lectures about upholding the Constitution had trampled upon it time and again. The first Constitutional Amendment, brought within a year of Independence, was aimed at curbing press freedom — a blatant blow to democracy,” he alleged.
Hitting back at State Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra for his recent remarks against the BJP-led government, Kharra quipped, “There is visible arrogance in his tone. Even Ravana and Kansa didn’t display such pride. Perhaps he should consult a good doctor for what appears to be delusion.”
Dotasra had earlier stirred controversy by alleging that Rajasthan's top leadership is under surveillance. “People are being warned not to speak on the phone with Ministers, as calls are being monitored from Delhi,” he claimed, calling it a dangerous sign for democracy.
On the ongoing preparations for municipal and Panchayati Raj elections, Dotasra criticised the state government, stating that the State Election Commission – not individual ministers – should issue statements related to elections. “Who is Jhabar Singh Kharra to make such announcements? This is the role of the Election Commission,” he remarked, accusing BJP leaders of undermining constitutional bodies.
Responding to this, Minister Kharra clarified that decisions related to ward demarcation and urban governance fall under his department’s jurisdiction. “As Urban Development Minister, it is my duty to speak on these issues. Once the ward delimitation process is complete in July, the State Election Commission will initiate the election process,” he said.
He further added that the BJP government under CM Bhajan Lal Sharma is committed to conducting municipal elections based on a ‘One State, One Election’ policy. “Whether held in one phase or two, the aim is a streamlined democratic process,” Kharra said.
Addressing Congress’ allegation of biased development, Dotasra accused the government of deliberately stalling projects in Congress-led panchayats and municipalities. “More than 1,000 seats are facing legal disputes due to this discrimination,” he claimed.
Meanwhile, Dotasra also updated on Congress' internal organisation, saying 80% of mandal and block committees have been formed and remaining appointments will be completed soon. The party will also submit its list of Booth Level Agents for all 200 Assembly constituencies to the Election Commission by June 28.
Taking a final jab, Minister Kharra questioned Dotasra’s political consistency: “If he believes in standing by his leader, let him clarify — was Ashok Gehlot right in calling Sachin Pilot useless, or is Dotasra now wrong in supporting the same person?”
With both camps trading fiery allegations, Rajasthan’s political landscape continues to witness intense drama ahead of the local body elections — with the Constitution, surveillance, and leadership loyalty forming the core of this escalating showdown.