Jodhpur: Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot Saturday attacked the BJP-led Rajasthan govt over deteriorating law and order, pending govt payments, delayed pensions and stalled development works, while urging it to immediately prepare for a possible drought-like situation amid deficient rainfall.Addressing mediapersons in Jodhpur, Gehlot said the govt should ensure adequate drinking water for people and livestock, arrange fodder and prepare a coordinated action plan involving all departments to deal with any drought-like conditions.“The govt should begin preparations immediately. Governance is about anticipating challenges and planning in advance, not reacting after a crisis unfolds,” he said.Recalling his tenure as chief minister, Gehlot said he had handled drought-like situations on four occasions and claimed Rajasthan’s management had received national recognition.Launching a broader attack on the BJP, Gehlot termed the state govt “inefficient” and alleged that the party had drifted away from the ideals it once projected. Referring to the BJP and the RSS, he claimed they were once associated with “chaal, charitra aur chehra”, but alleged that even BJP members now privately speak of widespread corruption within the system.Gehlot, who reached Jodhpur Friday night, met Congress workers at the Circuit House before addressing the media. He alleged that payments in several govt departments were being delayed, with officials asking contractors to prepare fresh bills, resulting in stalled development works across the state.He also claimed that social security pensions and retirement benefits of govt employees were not being released on time, blaming weak monitoring and administrative inefficiency for the delays.Targeting the govt on law and order, Gehlot alleged that crime was increasing across Rajasthan and claimed the govt was ignoring repeated concerns raised by the opposition.Responding to cabinet minister Jogaram Patel’s claim that crime had declined compared to the previous Congress govt, Gehlot said such statements were being made only to “please the Chief Minister.”On Jodhpur’s development, Gehlot alleged that several public infrastructure projects had been structurally completed but were yet to be made operational, depriving residents of their intended benefits. He also accused the govt of failing to fulfil promises made to students, warning that delays would invite public resentment.Gehlot will remain in Jodhpur till Monday to meet party workers and review Congress’ preparations for the upcoming urban local body elections.
