Former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot Condemns BJP's Disturbed Areas Act as Divisive Move
In a strong critique from Jaipur, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday launched a scathing attack against the BJP-led state government over its decision to introduce the controversial 'Disturbed Areas Act'. Gehlot described this legislative move as a "shameful chapter" in Rajasthan's history and accused the ruling party of attempting to brand the traditionally peaceful state as "unrest-prone" through what he called politically motivated legislation.
Gehlot's Social Media Outburst Against the Proposed Legislation
Taking to social media platform X, the senior Congress leader emphasized that Rajasthan has long been celebrated for its culture of brotherhood, harmony, and the welcoming spirit encapsulated in the phrase "Padharo Mhare Desh" (Welcome to my land). He asserted that the BJP government is systematically undermining this rich legacy by pushing forward a law specifically designed for disturbed regions, which he claims doesn't reflect Rajasthan's ground reality.
"The difference in approach is crystal clear," Gehlot wrote in his post. "Our Congress government, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi's timeless ideals, established the country's first Department of Peace and Non-Violence. This initiative was aimed at strengthening societal bonds through constructive dialogue, mutual harmony, and genuine love among communities."
Details of the Controversial Bill and Assembly Timeline
The Bhajan Lal Sharma-led BJP government formally cleared the draft of "The Rajasthan Prohibition of Transfer of Immovable Property and Provision for Protection of Tenants from Eviction from Premises in Disturbed Areas Bill, 2026" on January 21. This significant legislative proposal is scheduled to be tabled in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly during the upcoming session commencing from January 28, setting the stage for intense political debate.
Allegations of Creating a "Communal Laboratory"
Gehlot further alleged that after assuming power, the BJP government first rendered the existing Peace Department ineffective and non-functional, then proceeded with what he termed a deliberate attempt to impose the Disturbed Areas Act. He accused the ruling party of trying to transform Rajasthan into a "communal laboratory" for political experimentation.
The former Chief Minister firmly stated that Rajasthan currently experiences no social, political, or law-and-order conditions that would justify or necessitate such extreme legislation. He emphasized that the state lacks any substantial social ground for hatred or communal discord that would warrant labeling areas as "disturbed."
Warning About Societal and Economic Consequences
Issuing a stern warning about potential wider consequences, Gehlot expressed concern that the proposed law would negatively impact property values of ordinary citizens across affected regions. He cautioned that such legislation could create artificial divisions among communities that have coexisted peacefully for centuries, disrupting long-standing social harmony.
The veteran politician accused the BJP government of resorting to deliberate polarization tactics to divert public attention from what he described as administrative failures and governance shortcomings. "The people of Rajasthan fundamentally desire peace and harmony, not a 'disturbed' label imposed upon their state," Gehlot asserted, adding that the Congress party would strongly oppose what he characterized as a divisive and dangerous political mindset behind the proposed legislation.
