Asked upset MLAs to bear it for democracy: Gehlot on Pilot’s return

Although Rajasthan Chief Minister reconciled with his former deputy Sachin Pilot after the latter ended his month-long rebellion, Gehlot on Wednesday said MLAs loyal to him are yet to calm down. Speaking to reporters, the chief minister said although there was resentment among legislators who were lodged in hotels for a month, against the party’s soft stance towards Pilot, he has exhorted them to “bear it” to save democracy.

A meeting between Pilot and Rahul Gandhi on Monday signalled an “amicable resolution” of nearly a month-long Rajasthan crisis ahead of the crucial assembly session from August 14. The Congress had said that the crisis in Rajasthan is a “closed chapter” and all legislators supporting its government will work towards strengthening Rajasthan and fighting COVID-19 and other economic calamities.

Before leaving for Jodhpur, Gehlot told reporters, “It is natural for them (MLAs) to be upset. The way this episode happened, they had to stay in hotels…so it was natural to be upset. I have exhorted them that in the interest of the country, state, people of the state and for saving democracy, sometimes we have to bear.”

MLAs belonging to the Gehlot camp were lodged in hotels for close to a month as the political crisis in the state played out.

“We will work together and our colleagues who have gone have also returned and I hope that all, after settling the complaints and grievances, will work and fulfil our commitment to serve the state,” he said, referring to the rebel MLAs.

Gehlot also blamed the BJP of attempting to dismantle his government.

Pilot who returned to Jaipur on Tuesday, had said that he bears no ill-will against the chief minister neither wants a position in the government and would rather work for the welfare of the party.

(With inputs from agencies)