Former CM Ashok Gehlot Criticizes State Government Over Jodhpur Neglect in Budget
In a sharp critique on Friday, former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot accused the current state government of systematically neglecting Jodhpur and the broader Marwar region in the recent budget. He highlighted significant delays in key infrastructure projects, pending departmental payments, and a noticeable slowdown in welfare and development initiatives across the area.
Water Scarcity and Infrastructure Delays Highlighted
Gehlot emphasized the persistent water scarcity issues plaguing Marwar, noting that his previous administration had allocated nearly Rs 1,400 crore from state resources for the third phase of the Rajiv Gandhi Lift Canal scheme. This project was designed to ensure reliable drinking water supply to villages throughout Jodhpur district and adjacent regions. "The work began but later slowed down. If we had waited for immediate central funding, the project would not even have started," he stated, arguing that the region's urgent needs are being overlooked by the current leadership.
Non-Operational Public Projects and Healthcare Shortfalls
The former chief minister pointed to several completed public infrastructure projects that remain non-operational, depriving citizens of essential services. He cited a Rs 80 crore sports institute that is lying closed, which denies athletes access to vital training facilities. Additionally, the newly constructed Sumer Public Library has yet to open its doors to the public, and progress on the proposed Fintech University is moving at an alarmingly slow pace.
Gehlot further raised concerns about healthcare infrastructure, claiming that hospital buildings in Digadi, Pratap Nagar, Chainpura, and Magra Punjla are fully constructed but lack necessary doctors and medical equipment. "The government should not adopt such an indifferent approach," he urged, calling for immediate action to address these critical gaps.
Budget Criticisms and Electoral Concerns
Describing the state budget as "deeply disappointing," Gehlot alleged that pending payments across various government departments are severely impacting welfare schemes and development works. He questioned official claims of rising revenue, suggesting financial mismanagement may be at play. The former CM also expressed frustration over repeated delays in inaugurating the Barmer refinery, demanding clarity on why launch dates are continually being postponed.
On the political front, Gehlot called for the timely conduct of panchayat and urban local body elections, expressing confidence that the Congress party would perform strongly. However, he issued a stern warning about unchecked cash distribution during polls, labeling it as "the murder of democracy." "If money continues to be distributed unchecked, how will democracy survive? This amounts to the murder of democracy," he asserted, drawing a comparison to former Chief Election Commissioner TN Seshan, who once postponed polling in Tamil Nadu due to allegations of inducements.
Overall, Gehlot's remarks underscore a growing discontent with the state government's priorities, urging a renewed focus on development and transparency in Rajasthan.
