Rajasthan political crisis highlights: Governor Kalraj Mishra orders state government to call for an Assembly session

As the political crisis in Rajasthan deepens, Congress has decided to run a nationwide digital campaign -- 'Speak Up For Democracy' -- on Sunday against the BJP. A day after leading a dharna at the Raj Bhawan, Rajasthan CM on Saturday said if necessary Congress MLAs will meet the President and hold a sit-in outside the prime minister’s home to settle the crisis in the state. Gehlot has a wafer-thin majority in the assembly after Pilot’s rebellion – 102 in the House of 200, against his claims of 109. Pilot had claimed support of 30 MLAs but has only 18. With this, the instability in the Rajasthan government continues. Stay tuned for live updates.

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Rajasthan Governor will summon assembly session if state govt agrees on giving 21-day notice: Raj Bhawan sources. PTI

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra orders State Government to call for an Assembly Session. Not convening the Assembly was never the intention: Raj Bhawan, Rajasthan - ANI

Rajasthan High Court dismisses the petition filed by BJP against the merger of six BSP MLAs in the state with Congress party.

I still believe, hope President can intervene, instruct Rajasthan Governor to convene assembly session: P Chidambaram

No one can stand in way of CM who wants to prove majority, he is entitled to call session: P Chidambaram on Rajasthan crisis.

I spoke with Prime Minister yesterday and told him about the behaviour of the Governor. I spoke with him regarding the letter I had written to him seven days back: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. (ANI)

Congress' Salman Khurshid, Ashwani Kr & Kapil Sibal write to Rajasthan Gov over proposal to convene Assembly Session.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) moves Rajasthan High Court seeking to become a party in the petition by BJP against the merger of six BSP MLAs in the state with Congress. (ANI)

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra seeks clarification from the state govt over the proposal on the convening of the Assembly Session, asks "Do you want to move Motion of Confidence? It's not mentioned in the proposal but you've been speaking about it in media.": Sources. (ANI)

The whip was issued as the MLAs had won elections on BSP tickets and they cannot get involved in Congress' activities or vote for them. BSP chief decided this after a lot of deliberation. We're working on her directions: BSP’s Rajasthan chief on party's whip to all its Rajasthan MLAs.

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra returns to government cabinet note seeking assembly session with fresh queries: Sources. (PTI)

'There is an attempt to murder democracy in Rajasthan'

BSP Gen-Secy SC Misra wrote to Governor and Assembly Speaker that alleged merger of BSP-Congress is unconstitutional. Petition is pending before High Court too: Satish Poonia, Rajasthan BJP chief on BSP's whip to all its Rajasthan MLAs to vote against Congress in floor test.

Today's DH toon on Rajasthan political turmoil

Rajasthan crisis: Governor, a partisan player

What started as a rebellion against the Congress government of Ashok Gehlot by the then deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other legislators some weeks ago has taken legal and constitutional dimensions and expanded beyond the state.

Read more here

Vote against Congress: BSP issues whip to six Rajasthan MLAs

Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Sunday issued a whip to six MLAs in the Rajasthan Assembly to vote against the Congress if Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot sought a trust vote.

Read more here

Rajasthan Crisis: Governor will order us soon, we will call the Assembly session, says Ashok Gehlot

Taking part in the Congress' online campaign to "expose" the "BJP's designs to violate" constitutional and democratic norms, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot claimed that "democracy is in danger" and the entire country is "worried by the way elected governments are being toppled".

Read more here

We had to pay a lot of freedom, sacrifice: Ashok Gehlot

"Today, the whole country is concerned because democracy is in danger. #SpeakUpForDemocracy The program, which means it, has its own message, it has to be understood by the general public on the one hand and those who are in the rule on the other side will also have to understand. The kind of atmosphere that is within the country today is alarming," said Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot in Congress digital campaign.

"We had to pay a lot of freedom, sacrifice. That precious freedom was also protected in the aftermath of independence, like Pakistan, india did not rule the troops. For 70 years, governments changed, many prime ministers came, but democracy was strengthened," he said.

"I hope the Governor, whois also a very old politician, sociable, behavioural skilled and has great dignity for his office, constitutional office,will order us soon, we will call the Assembly," said Gehlot.

BSP issues whip, asks MLAs to vote against Congress in any proceedings

BSP issues whip to its 6 MLAs- R Gudha, Lakhan Singh, Deep Chand, JS Awana, Sandeep Kumar & Wajib Ali, who are elected to Rajasthan Assembly, directing them to vote against Congress in any "No Confidence Motion" or any proceedings to be held during Rajasthan Assembly Session.

State Chief Secretary Rajeeva Swarup and State DGP (Director General of Police) Bhupendra Yadav met Governor Kalraj Mishra at Raj Bhawan in Jaipur, today.

No mention of floor test in govt's proposal sent to Governor: Sources

Rajasthan Govt proposal to Governor asks to start Assembly Session from July 31st, proposes a discussion on Coronavirus and other Bills. No mention of floor test in the proposal: Sources

If pebbles thrown at Guv, CM Gehlot will face it first: Pratap Khachariyawas

CM had said that people will come to Raj Bhawan. It didn't mean that people will go inside it. If even one pebble is thrown at Governor, CM Gehlot will himself face it first, Rajasthan cabinet will face it, Rajasthan Police will face it: Pratap Khachariyawas, Rajasthan Min

Governor not a BJP worker: Rajasthan Min

Governor Kalraj Mishra is not a BJP worker, he is the Head of Rajasthan govt. It is our moral and legal right to go to the Head's house to tell him aboutour problems, request him to protect law and demand for our rights: Pratap Khachariyawas, Rajasthan Minister

Rajasthan Congress leaders perform Yoga

BJP toying with democratic values: Rajasthan Cong in-charge

BJP is trying to destabilise our government. Governor ignoring Chief Minister's request to call a session of State Assembly shows that Central Government is misusing constitutional institutions & is toying with democratic values: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pandey

"If the governor does not protect the constitution, If the judiciary is not able to give justice, The Government of India trampled on democracy, The altar of the lust of truth power ascends, So let's say..... Indian democracy is at risk. Now every countryman's duty is: Protect democracy, The mandate is protected," said Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala.

'Shame that there is a need to conduct a Dharna for enforcement of the constitution in Rajasthan'

"It is shame that there is a need to conduct a Dharna for enforcement of the constitution in Rajasthan.Governors office has been compromised with orders from their political bosses.Since inception of @narendramodi govt, constitutional offices have been used for political reasons," says Karnataka Congress in a tweet.

Ashok Gehlot government wants assembly session on July 31, drafts new proposal for Governor

The Ashok Gehlot Cabinet on Saturday cleared a revised proposal to be sent to the Governor, asking that a session of the assembly should be called on July 31, sources said.

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Rajasthan Speaker C P Joshi to withdraw petition against deferral of disqualification proceedings from SC

Rajasthan Speaker C P Joshi is likely to withdraw on Monday his pending petition before the Supreme Court against the HighCourt's interim order of July 21. The High Court had then directed him not to take any action in disqualification proceedings against rebel Congress MLAs, till pronouncement of judgement on July 24.

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We will hold a sit-in outside PM Narendra Modi's house if necessary: Ashok Gehlot

A day after leading a dharna at the Raj Bhawan here, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Saturday said Congress MLAs will meet the President and hold a sit-in outside the Prime Minister’s home to settle the crisis in the state if necessary.

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Supreme Court to hear on July 27 appeal filed by Rajasthan Speaker C P Joshi, against High Court's earlier order to defer anti-defection proceedings against former Dy CM Sachin Pilot & 18 Congress MLAs till July 24.

The HC had on July 24 directed ‘status quo’ in the case. - ANI

What Congress govt did at Governor House was a low-point in Rajasthan politics. There is no governance, those in power are lodged at a five-star hotel since weeks. People are suffering due to various issues: Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, BJP MP - ANI

The warning that '8 crore people will gherao the Raj Bhavan' given by Chief Minister and Home Minister of the state can invite punishment under Section 124 of the IPC: BJP state president Satish Punia after party delegation met Governor - ANI

13-member BJP delegation to meet Rajasthan governor

A delegation of the opposition BJP will meet Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra around 5 pm on Saturday.

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The elected government of Rajasthan is protesting, the BJP is busy killing public opinion, democracy is in fetters, and the country is in danger: Randeep Singh Surjewala

We will go to Rashtrapati Bhawan to meet the President, if needed. Also, if required, we will stage protest outside PM's residence: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, during Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. - ANI

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to meet Governor Kalraj Mishra at 4 pm

Rajasthan CLP meet begins in Jaipur

Cong workers stage demonstrations across Rajasthan against BJP

Scores of Congress workers staged demonstrations against the BJP on Saturday, accusing it of "conspiring" to topple the Ashok Gehlot government.

The Congress had on Friday given the call for demonstrations in all district headquarters against the "conspiracy to murder democracy" and to press the governor for convening an Assembly session.

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Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has sought time to meet Governor Kalraj Mishra to give a fresh proposal for convening Assembly session

Rajasthan Cabinet meet likely; govt to send revised proposal to Governor requesting Assembly session

The Rajasthan Cabinet is likely to meet again on Saturday to revise a proposal to be sent to Governor Kalraj Mishra requesting him to convene a session of the Assembly.

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Congress holds protest in Jaipur

Rajasthan govt to send a revised proposal to Governor requesting for Assembly session

The Rajasthan Cabinet is likely to meet again on Saturday to revise a proposal to be sent to Governor Kalraj Mishra requesting him to convene a session of the Assembly.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, facing a revolt by some Congress MLAs led by Sachin Pilot, chaired a meeting of the Cabinet on Friday night to discuss the points raised by the governor on its earlier proposal.

PTI

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot calls a meeting of the council of ministers today

Cong to hold protests at all Rajasthan district headquarters

Congress will hold protests at all district headquarters in Rajasthan today against Bharatiya Janata Party's "conspiracy to murder democracy".

Rajasthan cabinet discusses guv's six points on assembly session

A cabinet meeting chaired byRajasthanChief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday night discussed the six points raised by Governor Kalraj Mishra for calling an assembly session, sources said.

The meeting was held at the chief minister's residence which lasted for nearly two and a half hours.

PTI

Three Congress MLAs of Sachin Pilot camp deny they are in captivity

Three dissident MLAs of Rajasthan’s former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot’s camp on Friday dismissed the allegations that they are being held hostage in Haryana.

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Rajasthan Crisis | Game is on: CM Ashok Gehlot vs Governor Kalraj Mishra

A cat and mouse game was on in Rajasthan with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot pushing for the convening of a state Assembly session to face a floor test, while Governor Kalraj Mishra questioned the need for it.

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Rajasthan Governor will go by Constitution on calling session, Cong MLAs end sit-in

Congress MLAs in the Ashok Gehlot camp on Friday ended a five-hour dharna at the Raj Bhawan after an assurance from the governor that he will go by the constitutional provisions on summoning an assembly session, a party leader said.

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Why vote of confidence in assembly needed if govt enjoys majority: Rajasthan Governor asks govt

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra on Friday asked the Ashok Gehlot government why it wanted to call an assembly session to secure a vote of confidence if it already has the majority.

Read More

Congress sharpens attack on Gajendra Shekhawat, demands his resignation as Union minister

Stepping up its attack on Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Congress Friday demanded his resignation as a Union minister, a day after a Jaipur court asked the Rajasthan Police to probe a complaint alleging his involvement in a credit society scam.

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Amid a power tussle in Rajasthan, all eyes lay on Governor Kalraj Mishra

As the power struggle in Rajasthan grew intense, all eyes were on Governor Kalraj Mishra who has been accused by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot of “being under pressure from the top” to prevent him from proving majority in the state assembly.

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Rajasthan Guv will go by Constitution on calling session, Congress MLAs end sit-in

Congress MLAs in the Ashok Gehlot camp on Friday ended a five-hour dharna at the Raj Bhawan after an assurance from the governor that he will go by the constitutional provisions on summoning an assembly session, a party leader said.

The governor, however, wanted the state government's clarification on some points before he makes the announcement, Congress leader Randeep Surjewala told reporters outside the Raj Bhawan.

He said the governor has given assurance that he will abide by Article 174 of the Constitution.

The Article deals with the governor's role in summoning a session of the state assembly.

Legal experts earlier told PTI that the governor has no option but to accept the recommendation of the Ashok Gehlot Cabinet and convene the assembly session.

(PTI)

Rajasthan cabinet meet was held at 9:30 pm

Rajasthan cabinet met at 9:30 pm on Friday to discuss and clear queries raised by the governor.

Why vote of confidence in assembly needed if govt enjoys majority: Raj guv asks govt

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra on Friday asked the Ashok Gehlot government why it wanted to call an assembly session to secure a vote of confidence if it already has the majority.

The governor posed the query in a six-point questionnaire entailing a note sent by the Raj Bhawan on Friday evening to the state government’s Parliament Affairs Department, the Raj Bhawan said in a statement.

In his note to the state government, Governor Mishra emphasized that “no one is above the Constitutional dignity and no pressure politics should be resorted to.”

(PTI)

Congress sharpens attack on Gajendra Shekhawat, demands his resignation as Union minister

Stepping up its attack on Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Congress Friday demanded his resignation as a Union minister, a day after a Jaipur court asked the Rajasthan Police to probe a complaint alleging his involvement in a credit society scam.

"The Congress Party demands that for the sake of transparency and accountability in democracy, the prime minister ask Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to tender his resignation today," party spokesperson Pawan Khera told an online press briefing.

The Congress has been alleging that Jal Shakti Minister Shekhawat was conspiring to topple its government in Rajasthan through its rebel MLAs, a charge vehemently denied by him.

(PTI)

Why does BJP drag constitutional posts to their nasty game: K C Venugopal

"When fences eat crops! Surely BJP knows no morality. But why do they drag constitutional posts like that of the Governor to their nasty game?They do horse-trading when they don't have majority, use Raj Bhavan to take oath without numbers & even delay the assembly session," said AICC general secretary and Karnataka in-charge K C Venugopal.

Governments are formed and run by the majority of the people: Rahul Gandhi

The BJP conspiracy to topple the Rajasthan government is clear, says Rahul Gandhi

There is a rule of law in the country. Governments are formed and run by the majority. It is an insult to eight crore people of Rajasthan. The Governor should convene a Assembly session so that the truth comes before the country.

Anti Corruption Bureau issues notice to Congress MLAs Vishvendra Singh and Bhanwar Lal Sharma in connection with alleged horse-trading in Congress

BJP is conspiring to topple the government led by Ashok Gehlot, says Surjewala

BJP is conspiring to topple the government led by Ashok Gehlot constituted by the party with a majority, Congress, by hijacking public opinion using hooliganism. No matter how many tactics used, Gehlot will take on the throne of power in Delhi, says Randeep Surjewala.

I am sure that Governor will not come under any pressure, he will make a decision. We hope the Assembly session begins soon. So we are sitting here in protest. After he gives us a letter we will decide the further course of action: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Governor is our constitutional head, says Ashok Gehlot

I don't hesitate to say that he couldn't have stopped it (Assembly Session) without some pressure from the top. Why did he not decide yesterday? We've requested him again to make a decision soon. People are waiting: RajasthanCM Ashok Gehlot

Telling the Speaker not to take action is a new definition of democracy: Kapil Sibal

I think the definition of democracy has changed in the last few years. In the definition of democracy today, the Governor will not take the advice of governments but will seek advice from elsewhere, says Congress leader Kapil Sibal

In the new definition of democracy - you topple elected governments, tempt people for money among other things. Similarly, turn majority numbers to minority, topple the Govt and administer the oath to the Chief Minister: Kapil Sibal

Congress MLAs in Ashok Gehlot camp begin 'dharna' at Raj Bhawan, demand summoning of an assembly session, says Rajasthan Transport Minister

The floor test was early in M.P., — because the MLAs were in the hands of the BJP. Will not conduct floor tests in Rajasthan, — Because legislators are with Congress!

BJP is indulging in hooliganism, says Randeep Singh Surjewala

Congress MLAs supporting CM Gehlot at Raj Bhawan

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot meets Governor Kalraj Mishra, at Raj Bhawan in Jaipur.

Congress MLAs supporting CM Ashok Gehlot are on their way to meet Governor Kalraj Mishra at Raj Bhawan.

There is a political conspiracy. It'll become clear in coming days that how, when and who are behind it, says Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Rajasthan Court's order to investigate against him and his associates in alleged 'Sanjivini Credit Cooperative Society' scam.

Have majority, some rebel Cong MLAs wish to return but being held captive: Gehlot

All constitutional and legal options are open before the state government and will be resorted to "as and when necessary", the chief minister told PTI as uncertainty persists over the future of his government following a rebellion by his now sacked deputy Sachin Pilot.

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Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting is underway at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Congress leader Ajay Maken are present.

"We are going to the Governor to request him to not come under pressure and call the Assembly session," says Gehlot.

Governor is not giving directions to call session due to certain pressures, says Gehlot

We want Assembly session to be convened in order to discuss issues including coronavirus and the political situation. We believe that because of certain pressures, Governor is not giving directions to call the session, says Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot. He adds that they want to start the State Assembly session from Monday.

"Everything will be clear then. I had a telephonic conversation with the Governor and requested him to take a decision on this immediately. Now, we are going to meet him also," says Gehlot.

Congress MLAs led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to meet Rajasthan Governor at 12.30 pm, reports PTI.

BJP MLA moves Rajasthan High Court against the merger of BSP MLAs' group with Congress, claims Speaker's decision illegal.

JUST IN |Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress MLAs supporting him sought time from Governor Kalraj Mishra. Governor has given time at 12:30 pm today.

Some rebel Congress MLAs wish to return but being held captive, says Gehlot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot says the Congress and its allies have a majority in the assembly and a section of its MLAs are anxious to return to the party fold but are being held captive in a hotel in Haryana, according to PTI. All constitutional and legal options are open before the state government and will be resorted to "as and when necessary", the chief minister told PTI as uncertainty persists over the future of his government following a rebellion by his now sacked deputy Sachin Pilot.

Don't just watch movies: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat tells CM Ashok Gehlot, MLAs

Taking a jibe at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Union Jal Shakti Minister and Jodhpur MP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, took to Twitter to criticise Ashok Gehlot and MLAs of his camp for engaging in leisurely activities at a five-star hotel amid the ongoing political crisis.

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Rajasthan HC allows plea moved by Sachin Pilot, rebel MLAs seeking impleadment of Union of India in writ petition on disqualification issue.

Rajasthan High Court has made Centre a party in the case against Congress, in the petition filed by Sachin Pilot and MLAs against disqualification notice. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) will represent Centre in the court, saysPrateek Kasliwal, lawyer of Speaker CP Joshi.

DH Exclusive | Everyone wants to become minister in first term, says Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh

Amid a political standoff in Rajasthan, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday rued that unlike in the past, young leaders nowadays want to assume posts of power soon after entering politics. “I remember becoming a minister for the first time around 16-17 years after entering politics. But the problem is nowadays everyone wants to become a minister in their first term,” Singh told DH.

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Scandal, infighting erupt within ailing Congress party

Pilot’s parents were Congress stalwarts and served in elite government positions. He is close with members of the Gandhi family, who have controlled the party for decades, dominating India’s electorate until Prime Minister Narendra Modi first swept into office six years ago on a wave of Hindu nationalism.

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About three hours after this interaction with the media, Gehlot met Governor Kalraj Mishra at the Raj Bhawan. According to PTI, Congress sources said the two discussed the possibility of calling a session of the Vidhan Sabha.

Gehlot hoped that some of the dissident MLAs, who are led by sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot, will also attend the session when it is called “very soon”. “Without them too, we have a complete majority and will go to the House on the basis of this majority, and we will prove it,” he said.

Assembly session 'very soon', says Gehlot; meets Governor

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said his government will soon prove its majority in the assembly, hours before he met the Governor with whom he is said to have discussed calling a session of the House. “The assembly session will take place soon. The majority is with us, all Congress MLAs are united,” Gehlot told reporters.H

Yesterday, sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 MLAs, who challenged notices for disqualification issued by the Rajasthan assembly speaker in the high court, moved an application before the court to include the Union government in the list of respondents.The application was moved on the ground that Tenth Schedule's constitutional validity was under challenge and therefore, the Union of India was a necessary party now.

Congress government caused chaos, instability in state: Rajasthan BJP chief

Taking a dig at the Congress, Poonia said, "The party whose leaders are either out on bail or in jail, are talking about democracy." "But I think the people too have now understood that the chaos, instability in this state began under the rule of Chief Minister Gehlot and that of the Congress," the Rajasthan BJP chief alleged.

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Good morning readers and welcome to our coverage of the Rajasthan political crisis. Yesterday, the SC not only refused his plea but putting everything subject to the outcome of his petition before it.With this, even if HC on Friday decided against the Pilot camp, the Speaker would find it difficult to take any action against them.Today, if the High Court finds nothing wrong in disqualification notice, Pilot and his group are sure to rush to the Supreme Court. Stay tuned for live updates.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot pays a courtesy visit to State Governor Kalraj Mishra at Raj Bhawan.

Supreme Court refuses Rajasthan Speaker's plea; did his move backfire?

The move by Rajasthan Speaker C P Joshi to approach the Supreme Court has apparently backfired with the top court not only refusing his plea but putting everything subject to outcome of his petition before it, keeping the disqualification proceedings initiated against Sachin Pilot and other rebel Congress MLAs in limbo.

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Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot says he has majority in assembly, not scared of raids by central agencies.

Still, the first reaction always is 'it wasn't my voice'. They are also threatening people. Nothing is going to work. Satyamev Jayate: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot

If they think they don't trust Rajasthan government, then they can send the audio-tapes to FSL agency in the US for a voice test. They should step forward and undergo voice test: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot

I wrote to PM as it's a democracy, says Ashok Gehlot

I wrote it so that he doesn't say that he didn't have info or his people gave him incomplete information. I wrote it so that if I meet him, he doesn't say that he didn't know about it, saysRajasthan CM on his letter to PM

Voice of dissent in a democracy cannot be shut down: SC to Rajasthan Speaker

The top court’s observation came when senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Joshi, listed the reasons for starting disqualification proceedings and said that these MLAs did not attend party meetings and conspired to destabilise their own government.

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Rajasthan High Court gets go ahead to deliver judgement on plea by Pilot and other MLAs over disqualification

Refusing any relief to Rajasthan Assembly Speaker C P Joshi, a bench of Justices Arun Mishra, B R Gavai and Krishna Murari said the MLAs are elected by the people and they should be allowed to express dissent.

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SC allows Rajasthan HC to pass orders on plea of Pilot, 18 MLAs; directions subject to its verdict

The Supreme Court Thursday allowed the Rajasthan High Court to pronounce order on plea of 19 dissident Congress MLAs, including sacked deputy CM Sachin Pilot, against the Assembly Speaker's notice for initiating disqualification proceedings against them, but said that it would be subject to the outcome of the petition before the top court.

Speaker's petition against HC order needs detailed hearing, says SC

The Supreme Court says Rajasthan Speaker's petition against High Court order asking him to defer disqualification process till July 24 requires a detailed hearing. It fixes July 27 as the next date of hearing.

A Bench of Justice Arun Mishra refuses the request of Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi to stay the Rajasthan High Court proceedings on Sachin Pilot and MLAs petition against disqualification notice.

Supreme Court says, Rajasthan High Court can pass orders on Congress MLAs plea against disqualification notice from Rajasthan Speaker.

"You were only requested by the Rajasthan HC to wait till July 24," Supreme Court tells Speaker. To this, Sibal says,"Suspend the word 'direction' from the order, court can't do this."

The top court further says, "So problem is only with the word? Order everywhere says 'request'."

Rajasthan Speaker tells the Supreme Court that the issue of whether disqualification process against MLAs is permissible or not cannot be taken note of at this stage.

Voice of dissent cannot be suppressed, says Justice Arun Mishra

Justice Arun Mishra asks Sibal, "Can a person elected by people not express his dissent? Voice of dissent cannot be suppressed. In a democracy, can somebody be shut down like this?"

The Supreme Court asks Kapil Sibal, Rajasthan Speaker's counsel, "On what grounds disqualification was sought?" Sibal tells the court, "MLAs didn't attend party meeting, they're indulging in anti-party activities. They're in a Haryana hotel, incommunicado and sought floor test against their own party".

"There can't be a protective order at this stage. When Rajasthan High Court extended time to reply on notices and said no directions will be passed, that was a protective order," says Kapil Sibal.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi says, the Rajasthan HC can’t direct the Speaker to extend the time to file their replies to the anti-defection notices. It’s not in the jurisdiction of the court, Sibal says. This is against settled law on this point, he says.

Supreme Court starts hearing an appeal filed by Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi, against the Rajasthan High Court order to defer anti-defection proceedings against former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and 18 breakaway Congress MLAs till July 24.

Meanwhile, a Jaipur court has directed a probe into allegations against Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat in credit cooperative society scam, reports PTI.

The Supreme Court is likely to hear Speaker's petition against the High Court order deferring his actions on disqualification notices today.

Congress lashes out at Narendra Modi government for targeting Ashok Gehlot's brother

Congress alleged that the Centre was trying out all tricks at its disposal by ordering raids by Income Tax authorities, CBI and ED on persons close to Gehlot as part of plans to topple his government in Rajasthan.

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Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s false binary

Ashok Gehlot, the embattled Chief Minister of Rajasthan, speaking of his young, urbane and handsome Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, whom he dismissed for rebellion, said, “speaking good English, giving good bytes and being handsome isn’t everything. What is inside your heart for the country, your ideology, policies, and commitment, everything is considered."

Read more here

Despicable attempts made to destabilise Rajasthan govt: Gehlot writes to PM Modi

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding“despicable attempts” made by the BJP and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to destablise his government at a time when the nation was battling a public health crisis.

Read more here

Pilot, 18 Cong MLAs ask HC to make Central government a respondent on writ petition

Sachin Pilot and18 other Congress MLAs file a petition before Rajasthan High Court "humbly praying that Union of India, through Secretary Ministry of Law & Justice (Dept. of Legal Affairs), be made a Party Respondent to the present writ petition in the interest of justice and law"

CM Ashok Gehlot alleges that Gajendra Shekhawat Shekhawat is conspiring with Congress leaders to topple the state government.

Rajasthan CM writes to PM Modi

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot writesto PM Narendra Modi regarding 'despicable attempts to destabilize elected governments through horse-trading'.

"I don't know to what extent you are aware of all this or you are being misled," he writes in the letter.

A three-judge bench of Supreme Court will tomorrow hear the appeal of RajasthanAssembly speaker CP Joshi against the stay order passed by Rajasthan High Court on the writ petition by Sachin Pilot & 18 other MLAs asking Speaker to not take action against them till 24th July.

When the notices were issued, the rebel Congress MLAsshould have replied to the notice andcould have approached the court if they felt the action taken was not satisfactory. They want to circumvent the process which is not good for democracy, says Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi

My effort was to respect court's order, that's why I extended hearing for July 21 when court asked. Since the matter is in court, the Speaker can't proceed further. I've filed Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court to avoid contradiction between decisions of Speaker and thecourt, says SpeakerCP Joshi

In 1992, a Constitution bench ruled that the Speaker has the power regarding disqualification. Chief whip of Congress party filed a petition before me andI issuedshowcause notices to MLAs concerned. After that, the matter was taken to court, saysRajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi

Sachin Pilot files a caveat before Supreme Court to ensure that no orders are passed on Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi's petition without hearing Pilot and his supporting MLAs

Sachin Pilot serves notice to Congress MLA Giriraj Singh for 'false and frivolous allegation', demands one rupee and written apology

Sachin Pilot, through his counsel, serves legal notice to Congress MLA Giriraj Singh who alleged that Pilot offered him Rs 35 Cr to cross vote in Rajya Sabha polls. Notice demands a sum of one rupee and written apology before the media for issuing "false & frivolous allegation" within a week.

PM Narendra Modi has created 'raid raj' in India, we are not scared: Congress

The Congress leader also reacted to the killing of a journalist in Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh and said there was ''gunda raj'' and ''jungle raj'' in the state.

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Modi government failed to hijack public opinion: Congress

"We have been seeing the BJPcentral government's hand in Rajasthan for 6-7 days continuously, when all the tactics of the Modigovernment have failed to hijack public opinion," says Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala, reacting to the ED raids at the premises of CM Gehlot's brother.

"When Rajasthan legislators have decided that they are not going to get involved in the conspiracy of the BJP government, the shocked Central government and Prime Minister Modi ji started raiding the house of Chief Minister's elder brother by sending ED," he slammed the Centre.

In Other News | ED raids premises of Rajasthan CM Gehlot's brother in fertiliser scam

ED said searches are being conducted by the central probe agency in at least 13 places in Rajasthan, West Bengal, Gujarat and Delhi.

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Rajasthan Speaker moves SC against HC order deferring action in Sachin Pilot case

Rajasthan Assembly Speaker C P Joshi on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court against the High Court's direction to stay the disqualification proceedings initiated against sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs.

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K C Venugopal takes oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha

"As I take oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha today, I thank Congress President Sonia Gandhi ji, Shri @RahulGandhi ji & all INC leaders from Rajasthan for their support. With the blessings of the people of Rajasthan, I promise to deliver on my duties with the utmost sincerity." saysAICC General Secretary and in-charge of Karnataka K C Venugopal.

Rajasthan Speaker to move SC against HC order in Sachin Pilot case

Rajasthan Assembly Speaker C P Joshi on Wednesday said he was moving the Supreme Court against the High Court order, on a plea against disqualification notices, challenging his authority to discharge his duties as a presiding officer.

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Rajasthan Speaker to file petition in Supreme Court over HC direction to defer action on disqualification notices (PTI)

Speaker's responsibilities are well defined by the Supreme Court andConstitution. As Speaker, I got an application and to seek info on it, I issued a show-cause notice. If show cause notice will not be issued by the authority, then what is the work of authority, saysRajasthan Assembly Speaker.

Joshi says the rightful action of authorities had been circumvented, leading to a constitutional crisis.

Speaker has the complete authority to send a show-cause notice. I have asked my counsel to file Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court, says Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi.

Rajasthan Speaker is likely to address the media today, according to a News18 report. This comes after the High Court order to freeze action on disqualification notices sent to Pilot and his supporter MLAs.

Rahul Gandhi hits out at PM Narendra Modi for Rajasthan crisis

In remarks dripping with sarcasm, Rahul listed out the Namaste Trump event in February, bringing down the Madhya Pradesh government in March, making the nation light candles in April, celebrating the government’s sixth anniversary, virtual rally in Bihar in June and attempt to topple the government in Rajasthan among the achievements of the Modi government.

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Opinion | Resignation dramas to pull down governments must stop

Successful democratic systems across the world are characterised by equal opportunity for all citizens to participate in the election process, transparent and fair elections, and stability of the elected government. But democratically-elected state governments in India are frequently falling due to defections or resignation of elected representatives, induced either by personal ambition or due to the decision of coalition parties to pull out.

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Sachin Pilot has served a legal notice to Congress MLA Giriraj Malinga for his Rs 35 crore bribery allegation, reports ANI.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's OSD questioned by CBI in SHO Vishnudutt Vishnoi suicide case

A day after questioning Olympian-turned-Congress MLA Krishna Poonia, the CBI on Tuesday quizzed Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Deva Ram Saini in connection with the suicide by state police personnel Vishnudutt Vishnoi, who hadallegedharassment.

Read more here

Rajasthan political crisis: Sachin Pilot serves legal notice to Congress MLA

Rebel Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Tuesday served a legal notice on Rajasthan MLA Giriraj Malinga for the false and malicious statements made by him.

Read more here

Resignation dramas to pull down governments must stop

Successful democratic systems across the world are characterised by an equal opportunity for all citizens to participate in the election process, transparent and fair elections, and stability of the elected government.

Read more here

Sources close to Sachin pilot, ex-deputy CM have informed that he has served MLA Giriraj Malinga a legal notice for the false and malicious statement made by him to the press yesterday

In the view of the request of Rajasthan High Court, Speaker C P Joshi has postponed further course of action in connection with disqualification notice sent to 19 MLAs, till the evening of 24th July: Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat - ANI

Defer action on disqualification notices till July 24: Rajasthan HC to Speaker

The Rajasthan High Court on Tuesday requested the Legislative Assembly speaker to defer action on disqualification notices to dissident Congress MLAs till July 24, the speaker's counsel said.

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Hearing has concluded. Rajashthan High Court has fixed 24th July as date for passing order. Hearing before Speaker also deferred by Court: Prateek Kasliwal, lawyer of Speaker CP Joshi - ANI

Neither Congress nor BJP want Assembly to be dissolved: CM

Neither Congress nor BJP want Assembly to be dissolved & election to take place...Entire country is watching the way you're fighting. Your respect has increased manifold. It's not something ordinary.All of you have phones, there's no pressure on anyone," says Rajasthan CM at CLP meeting . (ANI)

Gehlot, Maken and Dotasara attend CLP meeting

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Congress leader Ajay Maken, state unit president Govind Singh Dotasara and others at Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting underway at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. (ANI)

Hearing on the petition filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 MLAs against Speaker's disqualification notice to resume at 2 pm in Rajasthan High Court. (ANI)

In Pics | Congress MLAs supporting Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Congress MLAs perform yoga and play badminton at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur.

Congress MLAs supporting Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot are staying at the hotel.

CBI has called Devaram Seni (OSD to Rajasthan CM) for questioning (ANI)

No objections to the impleading applications: Rohatgi

Rohatgi's instructing counsel submits that the defects have been cured.Rohatgi says that the issue of technical defects will be sorted out.

Rohatgi concludes; says he has no objections to the impleading applications."More the merrier", he says. (Live Law)

"Today's thinking is that the power should be taken from the Speaker"

"Your Lordships must ask the Speaker to file a better affidavit answering all the questions raised," said Rohatgi.

"Today's thinking is that the power should be taken from the Speaker and vested in an external tribunal," Rohatgi saidreferring to Supreme Court judgment in Manipur case.

Rohatgi cites 6 facts as grounds showing malafides

The proceedings "reek of malafides", submits Mukul Rohatgi.

"Mind you, we are in the middle of Covid-19 and only 3 days time given for reply", he adds. (Live Law)

Rohatgi cites the following facts as grounds showing malafides :

1. Notice issued on same day of complaint.
2. Less time granted for reply than as stated in rules.
3. No material to show application of mind before notice.
4. Notice just paraphrases words of complaint.
5. No reasons recorded for issuing notice.
6. Notice says if reply is not in writing it will be decided ex-parte.

Invocation of Tenth Schedule pre-supposes 'crossing over': Rohatgi

"The Tenth Schedule was enacted in the backdrop of 'aya ram gaya ram'phenomena to curb the evil the practice of crossing over. Kihoto judgment has to be understood in that context," says Rohatgi.

"Invocation of Tenth Schedule pre-supposes 'crossing over'. It has nothing to do with inner party dissent," he said in the Rajasthan High Court. (Live Law)

Rajasthan HC likely to pronounce order on petition filed by Sachin Pilot, 18 other rebel Congress MLAs today

The dissident MLAs had moved the court on Friday amid the infighting in the state unit of the Congress, as Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his now sacked deputy Pilot tussled for power.

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Rajasthan Crisis: Ashok Gehlot govt withdraws 'general consent' for CBI investigation; BJP says CM is hiding something

The Ashok Gehlot government has withdrawn its "general consent" to the CBI to conduct investigations in Rajasthan, and the central agency will now need its prior permission on a case-by-case basis, prompting the BJP to question the intention behind the move.

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Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is also scheduled to meet at 11 am

The Rajasthan High Court is likely to pronounce its order on Tuesday on a writ petition filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 other dissident Congress MLAs, challenging the disqualification notices issued to them by the state assembly speaker.

The petition was taken up by a bench of Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta on Friday and arguments were heard on Monday till evening.

The hearing will resume at 10:30 am. The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is also scheduled to meet at 11 am.

(PTI)

Will not join BJP, our fight to save Congress by effecting leadership change in govt: Pilot camp MLA

An MLA From Sachin Pilot's camp on Monday said the legislators supporting the former Rajasthan deputy chief minister will not join the BJP and their fight was to "save the party" by effecting a leadership change in the Rajasthan government.

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CLP meeting to take place today at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur

Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting to take place today at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur.

Congress MLAs supporting Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot are staying at the hotel. (ANI)

Will take call on supporting Gehlot govt after there is clarity on floor test: CPI(M)

The CPI(M) on Monday said it will make a decision on supporting the Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot-led government once it becomes clear when the floor test will be held in the Rajasthan assembly.

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Salve concludes his arguments. The bench rises for the day. The Court will hear Senior Adv Mukul Rohatgi for petitioners tomorrow morning 10:30 AM, and the intervenors in the case

The fact that a legal dispute arises from the conduct of politicians is not a bar to Courts exercising jurisdiction, Salve quotes from the UK Supreme Court decision in the Parliament prorogation case

Statement that we will bring down the Chief Minister's government and will bring our own government with the same party is part of right to dissent: Salve

Salve submits that Kihoto judgment does not absolutely bar interference of Court anterior to Speaker's decisions. The judgment permits such interference in exceptional circumstances.In the present case, the fundamental point is that the Speaker had no jurisdiction to issue notice on the complaint of the Congress Whip, says Salve

I'm saddened but not surprised to be at receiving end of such baseless, vexatious allegations being levelled against me: Sachin Pilot to ANI on Rajasthan Congress MLA Giriraj Singh's allegation that Pilot offered him Rs 35 crores to cross vote in RS polls

I'll be taking appropriate,strictest possible legal action against the MLA who was made to make the accusations. I'm sure more concocted allegations will be thrown at me to cause aspersions on my image but I'll be unfettered & remain firm in my beliefs & convictions: Sachin Pilot

Defection is when you leave Party A and joint Party B. Intra-party differences were not regarded as defection in Kihoto judgment: Salve

If a group of MLAs raise their voices against style of functioning of Chief Minister, that is not defection. In fact, the Kihoto judgment draws a marker with respect to inner party dissent. This cannot be regarded as "unprincipled defection", saysSalve.

A mere act on inner party indiscipline cannot be regarded as giving up of party membership: Salve

Salve submits that Kihoto judgment had addressed the issue of inner-party protest. Protesting against the party while staying within the party cannot be regarded as giving up party membership.

The Speaker has not limited himself to the allegations of mala fide made against him. The Speaker has argued that he can consider all materials : Salve

Always knew Sachin Pilot as 'worthless' person, but kept quiet in party’s interest: Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday described his former deputy Sachin Pilot as a “worthless’ person, “doing nothing”, but said he raised no question over it in the party’s interest.

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Singhvi submits the Speaker could defer the decision till Wednesday, provided the 19 MLAs file a reply by tomorrow

CJ asks Salve if he was aware that impleading petitions have been filed.

Salve says he is not. But that's not an issue.

"In cases like these, more the merrier", Salve says.

Speaker is the Master of the House. It is his primary jurisdiction to evaluate the facts and evidence: Kamat

Kamat says that the dissident MLAs had made open statements to bring down the government.

It is for the Speaker to take a call on whether the acts of the 19 MLAs amount to voluntary giving up of party membership: Kamat

Bench: Before you have complained to the Speaker, you had filed an FIR?

Devadatt Kamat: Not my client my lords, its the government (of Rajasthan) which had filed the complaint.

Question is about initiating the process of disqualification: Kamat

Devadatt Kamath took the Rajasthan High Court through the Judgments in support of his contentions

He said the question is about initiating the process of disqualification. It's a constitutional process. (Bar & Bench)

Kamat refers to Para 6(2) of 10th Schedule to state that disqualification proceedings are deemed to be proceedings within house within the meaning of Article 212 of the Constituion. (Live Law)

Our MLAs are staying without any restrictions: Ashok Gehlot

Our MLAs are staying without any restrictions but they have held their's (MLAs) captive. They are calling us and crying over phone while explaining their ordeal. Their personal mobile phones have been snatched. Some of them want to join us: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Leader of Opposition Gulab Chandra Kataria writes to DGP

Rajasthan: Leader of Opposition Gulab Chandra Kataria writes to DGP, requesting him to register an FIR on the complaint of BJP leader Laxmikant Bhardwaj against Congress leaders Mahesh Joshi, Randeep Surjewala& others over a manufactured audio clip & false statements by Congress. (ANI)

Sachin Pilot was conspiring from past 6 months with BJP's support: Gehlot

"He (Sachin Pilot) was conspiring from past 6 months with BJP's support. Nobody believed me when I used to say that conspiracy is going on to topple govt. Nobody knew that a person with such innocent face will do such thing. I'm not here to sell vegetables, I am CM," says Ashok Gehlot. (ANI)

Alerted Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot ahead of RS polls about conspiracy: Giriraj Singh Malinga

"Sachin Pilot offered me money to join BJP, but I refused," saidRajasthan Congress MLA Giriraj Singh Malinga.

"Alerted Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot ahead of RS polls about conspiracy to topple govt," he said.

Bench and A M Singhvi discuss onwhether the Speaker has to apply his mind while issuing a a notice under a complaint.

Did you apply your mind before sending the notice under 10th Schedule? the bench asked.

"I am not a robot or a post office.As long as the complaint is not outlandish, there is no need to accord reasons to issue show cause," replied Singhvi.

(Bar & Bench)

'In the absence of reasons recorded, what cause the person can show to avoid disqualification?", asks CJ Mahanty.

Singhvi says if the Court cannot interfere at the stage of show-cause, how can the Court decide on the sufficiency of reasons stated in the show-cause notice in HC.

Singhvi says if the Court cannot interfere at the stage of show-cause, how can the Court decide on the sufficiency of reasons stated in the show-cause notice.

Speaker's power is not comparable to other Tribunals; not like other 'quasi-judicial bodies, he said.

(Live Law)

Rajasthan Political Crisis: Phone tapping an assault on personal freedom, says Shiv Sena

Phone tapping is an assault on personal freedom and bringing down a democratically-elected government using money amounts to "treachery", the Shiv Sena said on Monday referring to the Rajasthan political crisis.

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Gajendra Singh Shekhawat alleges CM Ashok Gehlot framing him to avenge son’s defeat: Report

The Jodhpur MP had defeated Gehlot's son and Congress candidate Vaibhav by about 2.7 lakh votes in the Lok Sabha polls 2019.

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Police asked me to record my statement and voice sample: Shekhawat

Special Operations Group (SOG) of Rajasthan Police has sent a notice through my personal secretary. In the notice, they have asked me to record my statement and voice sample: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (ANI)

Principles of natural justice are not a straight jacket formula: Singhvi

"What prevents them from submitting a reply to the Speaker's notice?"Singhvi.

Any violation of the disqualification rules will not give a ground to review the decision of the Speaker, Singhvi quotes from Ravi Naik decision.

"In any case, in the instant case, the petitioners now have got 7 days time to submit reply. The question is not on the number of days provided; but on whether an effective opportunity was granted for giving response," he said.

Principles of natural justice are not a straight jacket formula, argued Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

(Live Law)

WATCH | Rajasthan: Congress MLAs along with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot sing 'Hum Honge Kamyaab' at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur

Speaker may or may not pass a correct decision. But there cannot be an interference at the pre-order stage, preempting that Speaker will take wrong decision: Singhvi (Live Law)

Singhvi now distinguishing between irregularity vs illegality. "Rules are subordinate to the Constitution.Assume there is a violation of a rule, even then it does not entitle for Judicial Review in the interim," he said in the Rajasthan High Court. (Bar & Bench)

Speaker will be violating the law if he does not act under tenth schedule (Anti-Defection & Role Of Speaker (UPSC Indian Polity Notes) This article will describe concepts such as Anti-defection, Role of Speaker) in the instant case: Singhvi (Live Law)

19 MLAs will have different facts, matters have to decided by Speaker: Singhvi

19 MLAs will have different facts. The matters have to decided by Speaker on case to case basis. Speaker's exercise of power cannot be interdicted at this juncture: Singhvi (Live Law)

Speaker is yet to decide; show-cause notice cannot be stayed: Singhvi

"The case before the High Court is much worse and the Petitioners are asking the Court to do something indirectly what it can do directly," says A M Singhvi. (Bar & Bench)

The High Court cannot be asked to re-look at the Constitution Bench decision of SC in Kihoto Hollohan case, he says. Singhvi cites CB judgment in AIR 1965 SC 1623 (para 9), (1973) 1 SCC 336 (para 10,11) to state once a statute has been upheld, a new ground of constitutional challenge can't be entertained by the Court later. He saysthat the instant case is "much worse", as there are no new grounds of challenge, and that the petitioners, in an "over clever" way, have raised the same grounds of challenge, which were considered and rejected by SC in Kihoto.

Singhvi argues that an interim order staying the Speaker's notices will amount to a stay on the operation of Paragraph 2(1)(a) of Tenth Schedule, which cannot be done.

The Speaker is yet to decide on the matter. Show-cause notice cannot be stayed. The questions of facts in the notices against 19 MLAs are yet to be decided, he said in his argument atthe Rajasthan High Court. (Live Law)

The Speaker can do right or wrong: A M Singhvi

"The Speaker can do right or wrong.The Speaker has the right to be wrong.This petition is based on the show-cause notice issued by the Speaker.Unless Speaker has disqualified you, you cannot approach in the interim," argues A M Singhvi. (Bar & Bench)

Freedom of speech of a member is not an absolute freedom, the SC had held in Kihoto case, submits Singhvi. Unprincipled defection is a political sin and against constitutional morality, Singhvi quotes from the SC constitution bench decision in Kihoto. (Live Law)

Dr Singhvi cites 2 more judgments

A M Singhvi cites 2 more judgments with respect to High Court not having jurisdiction:Amrita Rawat And Others vs Speaker andDevinder Sehrawat AAP MLA case.

Earlier he cited the Manipur Keisham Meghachandra Singh(authored by J Nariman) to state that it is for the Speaker to decide on the disqualification notices.

Singhvi argues that until the speaker decides, the Courts have no jurisdiction.

Singhvi argues that until the speaker decides, the Courts have no jurisdiction.

It's beyond the jurisdiction of the High Court, he said.

What will happen if the Speaker orders video recordings of Court proceedings: Singhvi

Abhishek Manu Singhvi argues that Judicial Review is absolutely barred in this case. He cites examples including the Jharkhand case and cites, what will happen if the Speaker orders video recordings of Court proceedings.

Abhishek Manu Singhvi argues that Judicial Review is absolutely barred in this case. He cites examples including the Jharkhand case and cites, what will happen if the Speaker orders video recordings of Court proceedings.

(Bar and Bench)

Courts have no jurisdiction over the disqualification of any member: A M Singhvi

Courts cannot interfere with the house proceedings. The Speaker's decision to initiate disqualification proceedings are not amenable to judicial review, says Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhviin Rajasthan High Court. (Live Law)

Abhishek Manu Singhvi argues that the Courts have no jurisdiction over the disqualification of any member. (Bar and Bench)

Sachin Pilot Group petition before the Rajasthan HC; Speaker not to take any action till 5:30pm on July 21

Sachin Pilot Group petition before the Rajasthan High Court to continue before the Rajasthan High Court. The Speaker had ordered the speaker not to take any action on disqualification till July 21 5:30 pm. Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta will hear the petitions.(Bar and Bench)

DH Toon | Of politics, horse-trading & phone tapping

Rajasthan Political Crisis: Hearing on petition filed by Sachin Pilot, 18 other Congress MLAs to resume in HC

The petition was taken up a by a bench of Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta on Friday and arguments were heard.

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Rajasthan High Court ready to hear petition filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs

Hearing on a writ petition filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 other dissident Congress MLAs from Rajasthan, challenging the disqualification notices issued to them by the state Assembly speaker, to resume in the Rajasthan High Court at 10 am on Monday (PTI)

Rajasthan political crisis: Congress says Ashok Gehlot confident of numbers, ready for floor test if required

Congress on Sunday asserted that Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had the numbers to prove his government's majority in the State Assembly and was ready to face a floor test if required.

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Rajasthan: Congress MLAs supporting Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot watch ‘Sholay’ at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur.

Daily changing tone with changing times: Congress slams BJP

"The BJP's poll is opening daily. The central chief spokesperson says ' floor test '. The Rajasthan BJP president, Shri Satish Punia and deputy leader of the opposition, Shri Rajendra Rathore, are saying today why the Congress wants to take a vote of confidence. Daily changing tone with changing times," says Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala.

Congress says Ashok Gehlot confident of numbers, ready for floor test if required

Congress on Sunday asserted that Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had the numbers to prove his government's majority in the State Assembly and was ready to face a floor test if required.

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Rajasthan's political developments put focus on Speaker's office

The political developments in Rajasthan put focus back on anti defection law under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution and the Speaker's office.

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Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot leaves from Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur. Congress MLAs supporting CM Gehlot are staying at the hotel. (ANI)

We’ll be kingmakers, says BTP as Rajasthan crisis unfolds

As the Ashok Gehlot government struggles to retain power in Rajasthan, the Bhartiya Tribal Party says it is now in a position to punch way above its weight despite its minuscule presence in the state assembly.

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Shekhawat has no moral authority to continue as Union minister, Congress slams BJP

The Congress demanded Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat's resignation on Sunday for his alleged involvement in a conspiracy to topple the Asok Gehlot government in Rajasthan.

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Ajay Maken demands Gajendra Singh Shekhawat give his voice samples for investigation, step down from his post till investigation is complete - ANI

Now that Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has been named in the FIR & his voice recognised in the audiotape, why is holding the post of Union Minister? Congress demands that either he resigns or he is removed so that he can't influence the probe, saysAjay Maken.

I heard that he is saying that the voice in the audiotape is not his but of another Gajendra Singh. If it is so, he should give his voice sample & step down from the post until the probe is completed, says Maken.

BJP giving threat of CBI action to save its leaders, says Congress leader Ajay Maken.

Why did Rajasthan's rebel Congress MLAs choose Haryana for camping? BJP's role is clear, says Congress leader Ajay Maken.

Rajasthan Political Crisis: Sachin Pilot shouldn't go Scindia way, has future in Congress, says Digvijaya Singh

"Age is on your side. Ashok (Gehlot) may have offended you, but all such issues are best resolved amicably. Don't make the mistake that Scindia made. BJP is unreliable. Nobody who joined it from any other party has succeeded there," Singh said.

Read more

After this, Gajendra Singh, Gulab Chand Kataria, Satish Poonia, Rajendra Rathore declared the audio to be false. Can they give a statement like CM? Narendra Modi and Amit Shah should come to the front, they should say if they will resign. CM has said clearly, says Pratap Khachariyawas.

'MHA jumped into the matter as their political leaders feared getting trapped'

MHA jumped into this matter as their political leaders told them they may get trapped as SOG Rajasthan has evidence and audio clip is authentic. The nation knows the chief minister's honesty. He had said if audio is proven to be false, he'll retire from politics, says Pratap Khachariyawas, Rajasthan Minister.

Sanjay Jain (arrested by SOG, Rajasthan Police) had come to me eight months back. He had asked me to meet Vasundhara ji and others. There are other agents like him but they didn't succeed in their attempts. Sanjay Jain had been active for a long time, says Congress MLA Rajendra Guda. We are more than 100 in number (MLAs). "We have the majority. If we didn't have majority, they (BJP) would have demanded a floor test. They know that we have it, so they are not demanding floor test," he adds.

BJP will do something when the time is right, says Opposition leader

The government has the right to tap phone but only after bringing it into the knowledge of and approval from the Home Department. No private person is authorised to do it. Some Lokesh Sharma, who is said to be OSD to CM, had done it. He's not authorised, he violated the law, says GC Kataria, Leader of Opposition. He adds that the BJP had never demanded the floor test, not even now. We are watching their fight. When the time is right and we have to do something, we will discuss and move in that direction. As of now, we are being unnecessarily dragged into this matter.

Can the Rajasthan govt permit any such tapping? asks state BJP president

Since the ACS (Home) has said he is not aware of the phone tapping, the question is - can the Rajasthan govt permit any such tapping? Home Ministry has taken cognizance of this matter & I think many things will come into fore: Rajasthan BJP president Satish Poonia

Defectors should be banned from holding public office for 5 years, fighting next poll: Kapil Sibal

Amid the political firestorm in Rajasthan following Sachin Pilot's rebellion, senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Sunday called for amending the anti-defection law to ban all defectors from holding public office for five years and fighting the next election. Sibal also said that the "antibodies" against the "virus of corrupt means" to topple elected governments lie in amending the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution (anti-defection law).

Read more

Special Rajasthan police team formed to probe audio tapes' conspiracy, make arrests

A special team of Rajasthan police officers has been formed to investigate and arrest the accused in the case registered with the special operations group in connection with audio tapes that revealed a conspiracy to topple the Ashok Gehlot-led state government. The eight-member team headed by SP CID (Crime branch) Vikas Sharma was formed Friday after two FIRs were registered on a complaint by Congress chief whip in the state Assembly Mahesh Joshi. (PTI)

Congress' future hinges on settling leadership question

While the confusion over the leadership issue at the top ever since the resignation of Rahul Gandhi as Congress president after the Lok Sabha poll debacle has only accentuated the internal dissensions in the middle ranks, including between the ‘old guard’ and ‘gen-next’, the party’s central leadership eventually woke up to salvage the situation in Rajasthan.

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DH Toon | Will Congress have its phoenix moment ever?

Old won’t go, young won’t stay

Down in the dump after its second successive Lok Sabha poll debacle in 2019, Congress is running out of time in any bid it might be making to revive itself if political developments in the last four months are taken into account, the latest one being the rebellion of the party’s once-promising leader Sachin Pilot.

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Raje, who is considered as the tallest BJP leader in the state, said it was unfortunate that the people of Rajasthan were paying for the “internal discord” within the Congress at a time when Covid-19 had claimed more than 500 lives and positive cases had crossed 28,000, the state facing locust attacks and crime against women is at an all time high.

Vasundhara Raje hits out at Congress; BJP wants CBI probe in phone tapping

Breaking her silence, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday hit out at the Congress leaders for accusing the BJP for the alleged attempts to topple Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s government.

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Rajasthan crisis: Ashok Gehlot camp MLAs performing yoga, getting cooking tips at 5-star hotel

From performing yoga to getting cooking tips, Rajasthan Congress MLAs of Ashok Gehlot camp are engaging themselves in various activities in a five-star hotel on the Delhi Highway where they have been staying since Monday amid the political crisis in the state.

Read more here

Vasundhara Raje hits out at Congress; BJP wants CBI probe in phone tapping

Breaking her silence, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday hit out at the Congress leaders for accusing the BJP for the alleged attempts to topple Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s government.

Read more here

Rajasthan political crisis: Gulab Chand Kataria demands CBI inquiry into audio tape row

Leader of Opposition in Rajasthan Gulab Chand Kataria on Saturday demanded a CBI inquiry into the audiotape controversy, alleging that Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot was misusing government agencies to save his post.

Read more here

Congress' future hinges on settling leadership question

The political crisis in Rajasthan, irrespective of the outcome, has helped the Congress leadership shed the image of acting like a bystander in the midst of political crises, which have unfolded one after another in the last year.

Read more here

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot paid a courtesy visit to Governor Kalraj Mishra and briefed him on the efforts being made in the state to fight Covid-19 pandemic. The meet between the two lasted for around 45 minutes. - ANI

BTP supports Gehlot govt in Rajasthan, say party's MLAs

The Bhartiya Tribal Party (BTP) supports the Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan, the two MLAs of the regional party said in a joint press conference with state Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasara on Saturday.

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A Jaipur court sends Sanjay Jain to four-day remand of Special Operations Group (SOG) team of Rajasthan Police - ANI

Accused in the matter Ashok Singh and Bharat Malani refuse to give their voice samples for further investigation. - ANI

It is unfortunate that the people of Rajasthan have to bear the brunt of the infighting in Congress...They are attempting to put the blame on BJP: Vasundhara Raje, BJP leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister on the current political situation in the state. - ANI

Were phones of politicians tapped in Rajasthan, asks BJP; demands CBI probe

The BJP on Saturday asked if the Congress government in Rajasthan resorted to "unconstitutional" methods to tap phones of politicians and demanded a CBI probe into what it called a "saga of illegalities and concocted lies".

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"FIR has been registered under Sections 7 and 7A of Prevention of Corruption Act. The audio clips will be sent to FSL for verification. After the report comes and it is verified, we will make the alleged people undergo a voice test"

FIR has been registered under Sections 7 and 7A of Prevention of Corruption Act. The audio clips will be sent to FSL for verification. After the report comes and it is verified, we will make the alleged people undergo a voice test, saidAlok Tripathi DG, ACB

Mahesh Joshi had filed a complaint on 10th June that MLAs are being lured. There was no name in that complaint. Y'day he gave a statement & submitted audio clips. FIR registered. In his statement, he named 3 people - Bhanwar Lal, Sanjay Jain & Gajendra Singh: DG, ACB.

Rajasthan Congress MLAs are spending the weekend at a luxury hotel in Jaipur: Report

With yoga, a film screening and culinary classes, Rajasthan Congress MLAs are spending the weekend at a luxury hotel in Jaipur to unwind ahead of a likely storm on Tuesday, according to an NDTV report.

BJP murdered democracy in daylight in Rajasthan: AICC spokesperson Pawan Khera

Surprised at being suspended: MLA Vishwendra Singh

Surprised at being suspended: MLA Vishwendra Singhtells India Today

Rajasthan PCC President Govind Singh Dotasara to hold press conference at 1pm at Fairmont Hotel.

Where did the black money come from? demands Congress

"Sachin Pilot repeatedly asked to be made Chief Minister of Rajasthan within one year"

Sachin Pilot repeatedly asked to be made Chief Minister of Rajasthan within one year and refused to meet with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and son Rahul Gandhi unless they were ready to accept his demand, sources close to party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra told NDTV.

Mayawati reacts to Rajasthan political crisis, says phone tapping illegal

"The Congress is now trying to suppress this noise through manufactured audio," Sambit Patra said.

The BJP on Friday dismissed as "manufactured" some audio clips, which the Congress has cited to accuse it of trying to topple the Rajasthan government, and said the rival party was in frustration over its "inability" to keep its house in order.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra noted that Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said soon after the rebellion by Sachin Pilot that if there are many utensils in a house, then they collide and make noise at times.

"The Congress is now trying to suppress this noise through manufactured audio," Patra said.

Audio 'manufactured', Congress acting in frustration: BJP

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra noted that Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said soon after the rebellion by Sachin Pilot that if there are many utensils in a house, then they collide and make noise at times.

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Congress dragging BJP in its internal fight: Satish Poonia

BJP state president Satish Poonia also hit out at Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, saying he levelled false allegations against Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to defame him.

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Hearing before Assembly Speaker (on notice issued to Sachin Pilot & other MLAs) that was scheduled to be held today has been deferred till 5:30 pm on Tuesday. No action can be taken against MLAs till then: Lawyer Prateek Kasliwal, who is representing Speaker CP Joshi at Rajasthan HC. - ANI

Rajasthan Speaker expected to take up at 5 pm Congress complaint seeking disqualification of Sachin Pilot, 18 other MLAs from assembly

Hearing begins at Rajasthan High Court on a petition filed by Sachin Pilot & 18 other Congress MLAs against disqualification notices issued to them by the Assembly Speaker.

Congress is frustrated as it couldn't put its house in order: Sambit Patra

BJP rejects all the baseless allegations being levelled against the BJP leaders by Congress in Rajasthan. Actually, Congress is frustrated as it couldn't put its house in order. They want to blame BJP for their failures by using a manufactured audio clip: Sambit Patra, BJP

BJP rejects all the baseless allegations being levelled against the BJP leaders by Congress in Rajasthan. Actually, Congress is frustrated as it couldn't put its house in order. They want to blame BJP for their failures by using a manufactured audio clip: Sambit Patra, BJP

Hearing begins at Rajasthan High Court on a petition filed by Sachin Pilot & 18 other Congress MLAs against disqualification notices issued to them by the Assembly Speaker.

"What happened today was shameful for the politics of Rajasthan"

What happened today was shameful for the politics of Rajasthan. Chief Minister's residence becoming a centre of fake audio and attempting character assassination of leaders. Attempts have been made to drag Central Ministers in the matter: Satish Poonia, Rajasthan BJP President

​​​​​​​Special operations Group (SOG) lodges 2 FIRs over purported audio clip about conspiracy to topple Rajasthan Government. Ashoke Rathore, ADG SOG says, "Authenticity of audio clip to be probed first."

There were two complaints from Mahesh Joshi (Congress leader), it is with respect to the audio that went viral yesterday. We registered 2 FIRs under section 124A and 120B. The veracity of clip to be investigated: Ashoke Rathore, ADG Special Operations Group (SOG), Rajasthan

Yesterday, shocking tapes were aired by the media in which Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, BJP leader Sanjay Jain & Congress MLA Bhanwar Lal Sharma spoke about bribing MLAs and bringing down Rajasthan govt, saidRandeep Singh Surjewala, Congress.

I am ready to face any investigation. The audio doesn't have my voice: Union Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

MLAs who have been supporting Pilot – Bhanwarlal Sharma and Vishvendra Singh – suspended

Case filed against union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, rebel Congress MLA in Rajasthan government-ordered probe: Report

I have complained to Special Operations Group (SOG) seeking an investigation, registration of case and appropriate action: Mahesh Joshi, Congress Chief Whip

Ashok Gehlot camp releases 'audio proof' against Sachin Pilot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s camp on Thursday night released audio recordings of purported conversations between a representative of a Union minister and an MLA supporting rebel leader Sachin Pilot.

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The tapes that have surfaced between yesterday evening & today morning show that BJP has, prima facie, conspired to topple Congress govt & buy MLAs' loyalty. BJP dwara janmat ka apaharan aur prajatantra ke cheerharan ki koshish ki ja rahi hai: Surjewala

The tapes that have surfaced between yesterday evening & today morning show that BJP has, prima facie, conspired to topple Congress govt & buy MLAs' loyalty. BJP dwara janmat ka apaharan aur prajatantra ke cheerharan ki koshish ki ja rahi hai: Randeep Surjewala, Congress

Cong accuses Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat of being involved in 'conspiracy' to topple Raj govt, demands case against him

Dark chapter in history of democracy: Cong leader Surjewala on audio tape pertaining to horse trading of Rajasthan MLAs

Congress suspends Vishvendra Singh and Bhanwarlal Sharma -- both supporters of Sachin Pilot -- from the primary membership of the party

Rajasthan High Court to hear tomorrow petition filed by dissident MLAs over Speaker's disqualification notice.

Time has been sought by the petitioner to amend the petition. The Court has given them time. Next hearing will be held when they will file the amended petition: Abhay Kumar Bhandari, Lawyer presenting Mahesh Joshi, Congress Chief Whip - ANI

Sachin Pilot & 18 other Congress MLAs, who have approached Rajasthan High Court over disqualification notice from Assembly Speaker, seekquashing and setting aside of the show cause notice issued on July 14 by Speaker, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly - ANI

Sachin Pilot camp moves high court, challenges Speaker's disqualification notice

The Rajasthan High Court will hear Thursday afternoon a petition filed on behalf of the Sachin Pilot camp, challenging a move to disqualify dissident MLAs from the state assembly.

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Abhishek Manu Singhvi to represent Rajasthan Assembly Speaker at the High Court. The matter will be heard at 3 pm today.

JUST IN | Prithviraj Meena, MLA supporting Sachin Pilot, moves Rajasthan High Court challenging state Assembly Speaker's disqualification notice to them. Thematter will be heard at 3 pm today. Harish Salve andMukul Rohatgi will represent them.

Are legislators vacationing in Haryana? Kapil Sibal takes a dig at Sachin Pilot

Taking a swipe at Sachin Pilot over his claim that he is not joining the BJP, senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Thursday asked what happens to his ‘ghar wapsi’ and whether Rajasthan's dissident legislators are vacationing in Haryana under the “watchful eye” of the saffron party.

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BJP grooms young, Congress can't hold on to them

After coming to power in 2014 at the Centre, the BJP kept mentoring future leadership, amid the flak invited for creating a Mardarshak Mandal in which party veterans like L K Advani and Murali Manohar Joshi were pushed, instead of being inducted into the Narendra Modi cabinet or being assigned major roles in the party.

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No talks held between Pilot, BJP: Shekhawat

In a statement, Shekhawat said his remarks on Tuesday that it would be a matter of happiness if anybody with a mass base joins the BJP, should not be interpreted to suggest that the party has rolled out a carpet to welcome him.

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Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on rebel leader Sachin Pilot, accusing him of conspiring with the BJP to topple the government while being the Deputy Chief Minister and the President of the party’s state unit. Read more

Randeep S Surjewala on speculations of Pilot joining BJP

We've seen Sachin Pilot's statement that he won't join BJP. I'd like to tell him that if you don't want that, then immediately come out of the security cover of BJP's Haryana govt, stop all conversations with them & come back to your home in Jaipur: Randeep S Surjewala, Congress (ANI)

Speaking good English, giving good bytes and being handsome isn't everything. What is inside your heart for the country, your ideology, policies, and commitment, everything is considered: Ashok Gehlot.

'I have been in politics for 40 years, we love the new generation'

I have been in politics for 40 years, we love the new generation, the future will be theirs. This new generation, they have become central ministers, state presidents if they had gone through what we did in our time, they would have understood: Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthan CM.

Horse trading was being done in Jaipur, we have the proof. We had to keep people at a hotel for 10 days, if we had not done that, the same thing that is happening in Manesar now would have happened back then: Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthan Chief Minister.

AICC has decided to dissolve all the District Congress Committees and Block Congress Committees of Rajasthan Pradesh with immediate effect. The process of formation of new committees will begin soon: Avinash Pande, Rajasthan Congress In-charge. (ANI)

Rajasthan BJP President Satish Punia meets senior party leaders, amid the current political situation in the state.

'We had decided the timing of our meeting based Sachin Pilot's press conference but now that it has been cancelled'

Disqualification notices to be sent to Sachin Pilot, other MLAs for not attending CLP meet: Congress

The Congress had on Tuesday cracked down on Sachin Pilot, stripping the dissident leader of the posts of Rajasthan's deputy chief minister and the party’s state unit president and sacking two loyalists from the state Cabinet.

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Congress party puts notice at MLA Gajendra Singh Shaktawat's residence in Vallabhnagar, for not attending Congress Legislative Party meetings. He and 18 other party members have to respond to the notice within 2 days.

Sachin Pilot's actions have been against the party discipline: Digvijaya Singh

Notices issued to Sachin Pilot other party members, for not attending Congress Legislative Party meetings. If they do not respond within two days, then it will be considered that they are withdrawing their membership from CLP: AICC General Secretary Avinash Pande.

He should admit his mistake: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande

'What did these sons give to the Congress?'

Why the Sachin Pilot rebellion won’t alter Congress 'family' DNA

There is an all-round acknowledgment that the brewing differences between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot could have been sorted out if a proactive Congress leadership had stepped in before this feud degenerated into an ugly public spectacle.

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I’m not joining BJP, says Sachin Pilot squashing rumours of his joining the saffron party

Jyotiraditya Scindia, Sachin Pilot episodes reflective of leadership crisis plaguing Congress: Political analysts

With Jyotiraditya Scindia having exited the Congress and Sachin Pilot rebelling, political observers feel the recent events relating to the two leaders were reflective of a deeper crisis of leadership plaguing the grand old party and lack of a clear roadmap.

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Sad to see Sachin Pilot 'leave' Congress: Shashi Tharoor

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday said he was sad to see Sachin Pilot "leave" the Congress and asserted that instead of "parting", the former Rajasthan deputy chief minister should have joined the effort to make the party a more effective instrument for "his and our dreams".

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Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande dissolves State Executive unit, all other depts and cells of Rajasthan PCC. He says, "The new State Executive unit, all departments and cells will be constituted after new PCC chief (Govind Singh Dotasara) was appointed today." (ANI)

In Rajasthan state cabinet meeting today, proposal to be sent to the centre to designate Eastern Rajasthan Canal Projects a national project was approved. Also decided to establish 'One Stop Shop' system in state for quick approval to proposals of investment over Rs 10 Crore. - ANI

Jyotiraditya Scindia, Sachin Pilot episodes reflective of leadership crisis plaguing Congress: Political analysts

With Jyotiraditya Scindia having exited the Congress and Sachin Pilot rebelling, political observers feel the recent events relating to the two leaders were reflective of a deeper crisis of leadership plaguing the grand old party and lack of a clear roadmap.

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The State Cabinet and Council of Ministers meetings at the residence of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot have now concluded - ANI

Congress embarrassed as Jitin Prasada heaps praise on Sachin Pilot

The Congress was left red-faced after one of its prominent young faces from Uttar Pradesh and former minister Jitin Prasada on Tuesday seemed to support sacked Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot.

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Ashok Gehlot should take floor test, demands BJP

As the ruling Congress in Rajasthan grapples with a rebellion led by Sachin Pilot, the BJP on Tuesday demanded that Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot take a floor test to prove his government's majority in the Assembly.

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BJP held a meeting today at their party office in Rajasthan over the current political situation in the state. Party's state president Satish Poonia and party leaders Om Mathur, Gulab Chand Kataria & Rajendra Rathore were present at the meeting - ANI

Held like 'hostage', alleges Rajasthan MLA Rajkumar Roat in video

Two video clips of Rajasthan's Bharatiya Tribal Party MLA Rajkumar Roat surfaced on social media on Tuesday with the leader claiming in one of these that he has been kept like a "hostage" and not allowed to go to his constituency.

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59 office bearers of Tonk unit of Congress in Rajasthan tender their resignations in protest against the removal of Sachin Pilot as the Deputy CM and Rajasthan PCC Chief - ANI

So many people joined BJP after its establishment, making it the world's largest party. If anyone, who believes in our ideology, wants to join the party, we will definitely welcome them with open arms: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat - ANI

Rajasthan political crisis: Sachin Pilot playing into the hands of BJP, says Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday accused rebel leader Sachin Pilot of playing into the hands of the BJP.

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What anti-party statement did we make?We only wanted to get high command's attention to promises in our manifesto as we haven't been able to deliver them in close to 2 yrs of being in power. For what fault was action taken?: Vishvendra Singh,who was dropped as minister - ANI

Pilot grounded; Congress veterans call the shots yet again

With Sachin Pilot fired from both the posts of Deputy Chief Minister and Rajasthan PCC chief, the old guard in the Congress once again had the last laugh as the generation tussle in the century-old party came to the fore yet again.

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Police force across Rajasthan alerted to ensure peace, maintain law and order

Police personnel across the Rajasthan have been alerted to maintain peace in their jurisdictions amid the political crisis in the state, an official said.

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State Cabinet meeting to be held at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence at 7:30 PM and meeting of Council of Ministers at 8:00 PM today - ANI

No one can take away the fact that Sachin Pilot worked with dedication for Congress: Jitin Prasada

No one can take away the fact that Sachin Pilot has long worked with dedication for the Congress, party leader Jitin Prasada said on Tuesday soon after his “colleague and friend” was sacked as Rajasthan deputy chief minister and Pradesh Congress Committee chief.

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Rajasthan govt on autopilot as CM busy chasing Pilot, says Union minister Shekhawat

Taking a dig at the crisis-hit Ashok Gehlot-led government in Rajasthan, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday said that the dispensation is on autopilot as the chief minister is "busy chasing a Pilot".

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A vertical division can be seen in Congress party in Rajasthan, with the sacking of Dy CM. Now, if chief minister wants to expand his Cabinet, he should first prove majority on the floor. He will not send a good message if he does it without floor test: Gulab Chandra Kataria, BJP - ANI

Rajasthan BJP leaders discuss Congress crisis, meeting underway in Jaipur

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Rajasthan, opposition BJP leaders on Tuesday met here to discuss the current situation in the state.

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Sachin Pilot is correct, it is the victory of those who were elected by the people: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pandey - ANI

I've been impartial to all MLAs: Ashok Gehlot - ANI

BJP is running the show: CM Ashok Gehlot

There is nothing in Sachin Pilot's hands, it is the BJP which is running the show. BJP has arranged that resort and they are managing everything. The same team which worked in Madhya Pradesh is at work here: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot (ANI)

Rajasthan Governor accepts CM Ashok Gehlot's proposal to remove Sachin Pilot as Deputy CM

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra has accepted CM Ashok Gehlot's proposal to remove Sachin Pilot as Deputy CM, and Vishvender Singh and Ramesh Meena as ministers.

Truth can be disturbed, cannot be defeated: Pilot

"Truth can be disturbed, cannot be defeated," tweets Sachin Pilot in Hindi. (सत्य को परेशान किया जा सकता है पराजित नहीं।)

WATCH | Rajasthan: CM Ashok Gehlot meets Governor Kalraj Mishra, at Raj Bhawan in Jaipur

Sachin Pilot and some of his associates swayed by BJP's plot: Surjewala

Congress party has decided to remove Sachin Pilot as Deputy CM and Rajasthan PCC Chief. Vishvender Singh & Ramesh Meena removed as Ministers, said Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala.

I regret that Sachin Pilot and some of his associates have been swayed by BJP's plot and are now conspiring to topple the Congress govt elected by 8 crore Rajasthanis. It is unacceptable, he said.

Sachin Pilot removed as Rajasthan Deputy CM, and state PCC chief. Pilot’s two key aides also axed from state Cabinet, according to media reports.

Sachin Pilot removed as Deputy Chief Minister, announces Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala

CLP passes resolution to take action against rebels: Report

CLP meeting passes resolution to take disciplinary action against rebel MLAs, according to multiple media reports.

A show cause notice against all MLAs who skipped the second meeting held today. Thefinal decision is to be left to party high command.

102 MLAs present at the ongoing Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur have unanimously demanded that Sachin Pilot should be removed from the party: Sources (ANI)

Don't be emotional: Tarun Gogoi tells Sachin Pilot

"My advise to Sachin Pilot to be patient, not to be emotional. Having bright future your turn will come. I also had similar hurdles but ultimately patience helped. Better not to run after power which will come automatically. Ashok Gehlot may also give due recognition to Mr Pilot," said former Assam CM Tarun Gogoi.

In Pics | Rajasthan: Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting underway at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur.

Rajasthan: Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting begins at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur.

WATCH | Gandhis only want those who do 'he he he' with them: Uma Bharti

"The whole crisis (in Rajasthan) is due to Rahul Gandhi and his family because they insult young leaders and are jealous of them... Gandhis only want those who do "he he he" with them to stay in government," says BJP leader Uma Bharti. (ANI)

CLP Meet: Avinash Pande appeals to Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot

Congress National General Secretary Avinash Pande appeals to Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and his supporters to join the second Congress Legislature Party meeting scheduled in Jaipur. (PTI)

We are not demanding floor test: BJP

Congress has been claiming that their leaders are united but it's clear that there are internal disputes, because of which, Sachin Pilot had to leave the party after facing humiliation. At present, we are not demanding floor test: Rajasthan BJP President Satish Punia

Sachin Pilot skips second Congress meet in Rajasthan

Sachin Pilot skips second Congress meet in Rajasthan todday after party reaches out to him, according to multiple media reports.

Congress Legislative Party meeting is being conducted again & again to send messages to Sachin Pilot that still there's time for him to come. Party's top leadership still has flexibility for him. Decision will be taken after today's meeting over further course of action, according to ANI sources.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ahmed Patel, P. Chidambaram and KC Venugopal have talked to Sachin Pilot several times, but there is less possibility of his attending the CLP meet today, ANI said.

We are giving a second chance to Sachin Pilot: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande

We are giving a second chance to Sachin Pilot, asked him to attend today's CLP meet. I hope today all MLAs come&give solidarity to leadership&for which ppl of Rajasthan voted, we all want to work for development of state: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande to ANI.

WATCH | Rajasthan Cabinet Minister BD Kalla and Congress MLAs Ramnarain Meena, Hakam Ali and Gopal Meena seen doing exercise at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur

Rajasthan Cabinet Minister BD Kalla and Congress MLAs Ramnarain Meena, Hakam Ali&Gopal Meena seen doing exercise at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. State Ministers&Congress MLAs who are lodged at the hotel attended Congress Legislative Party meeting at CM Ashok Gehlot's residence yesterday.

Congress’s young leaders are seeking greener pastures, is leadership to blame?

Months after Congress lost Madhya Pradesh, a political thriller is being played out in Rajasthan where Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot are fighting a battle for political supremacy.

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Rajasthan political crisis: Sachin Pilot-led Congress camp releases video showing 16 MLAs sitting together

In a show of strength, Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot-led Rajasthan Congress camp on Monday released a video showing at least 16 MLAs sitting together.

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Congress MLAs to meet at 10 am

Congress Rajasthan legislators to meet at 10 amat Hotel Fairmont in the outskirts of Jaipur,spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said.

DH Toon | Congress’s young leaders are seeking greener pastures

DH Toon | Congress’s young leaders are seeking greener pastures, is leadership to blame?

BTP asks MLAs to be neutral, neither support Gehlot nor Pilot

The Bhartiya Tribal Party (BTP), which has two MLAs in theRajasthanassembly, has asked its legislators to remain neutral and not align either with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot or his deputy Sachin Pilot.

The development comes hours after a Congress legislature party meeting, where Congress MLAs expressed support for Gehlot and only indirectly referred to Pilot, whose rebellion threatens his government.

The BTP has also asked its MLAs neither to align with the Congress nor the BJP during the ongoing political crisis in the state. (PTI)

Pilot-led Cong camp releases video showing 16 MLAs sitting together

In a show of strength, Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot-ledRajasthanCongresscamp on Monday released a video showing at least 16 MLAs sitting together.

This comes hours after theCongressheld a legislature party meeting. Party leaders said 106 of 122 MLAs attended, a claim contested by the Pilot camp.

The 10-second video was shared late at night on Pilot's official WhatsApp group.

In the video, at least 16 MLAs are seen sitting together in a close circle. Pilot is not seen in the video.

Six other people can be seen in the video but they could not be identified.

Some of the MLAs seen in the video are Indraraj Gurjar, Mukesh Bhakar, Harish Meena.

Congress calls another meeting of Rajasthan MLAs on Tuesday morning (PTI)

Congress is stable in Rajasthan after party central leadership's intervention, but for how long?

The widening chasm between old guard versus the new generation that came for during the desert storm in Rajasthan politics, seems to have been papered over for the time being with Congress central leadership making a last-minute intervention to ensure it does not lose another state won just less two years ago.

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Congress calls another meeting of the Rajasthan CLP on Tuesday, makes fresh appeal to Sachin Pilot and his supporters to join

Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) issues letter to its two MLAs to abstain in the event of a trust vote in the assembly. These two MLAs had earlier supported the Ashok Gehlot-led government in Rajasthan

Ashok Gehlot govt doesn’t have numbers they claim. CM’s back garden isn't the place to prove majority, it’s done in Assembly. If they have numbers as claimed then why not do a head count, take them to Guv instead of moving them to hotel?: Sources close to Sachin Pilot - ANI

20 MLAs didn't attend the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting held at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence today - ANI

Word wars, pacification in Rajasthan crisis

A political crisis has emerged in Rajasthan after Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot decided to rebel against Congress and threaten to destabilise the state government. He declared open rebellion, claiming that the Ashok Gehlot government is in minority now as over 30 Congress MLAs have “pledged support” to him.

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MLAs arrive at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur, after attending Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence - ANI

Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi in touch with Sachin Pilot, trying to placate him: Report

Top Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, are in touch with Sachin Pilot and are trying to placate him, a day after the Rajasthan Deputy CM declared open rebellion against Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, sources said on Monday.

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CLP meet passes resolution; supports Gehlot's government, seeks action against any anti-party activity

Resolution passed at CLP meet: This ripping off of democracy by BJP is an insult to 8 Cr people of Rajasthan, they'll not accept it. CLP meet expresses its confidence in Congress President Sonia Gandhi & leader Rahul Gandhi, & unanimously supports the govt led by Ashok Gehlot.

This meet urges that strict disciplinary action be taken against any office bearer or member of Legislative Party who indulges in activities against the Congress govt, party or gets involved in any conspiracy.

Rahul Gandhi's envy causing Congress' destruction, says Uma Bharti on Rajasthan crisis

Amid the crisis in the Congress government in neighbouring Rajasthan, senior BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Uma Bharti on Monday accused Rahul Gandhi of not allowing young leaders to flourish in his party due to envy.

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Rajasthan Congress leaders question timing of Income Tax raids

Joshi was speaking to reporters outside the residence of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot where a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party has been convened.

"I condemn this. The raids are uncalled for and intended at threatening but we are not going to be distracted or scared by this," he said.

Read more here

Not joining BJP, says Sachin Pilot as crisis brews in Rajasthan

Pilot told NDTV that he was not joining the BJP as being speculated by a section of the media, but did not spell out his future plans.

On Sunday, Pilot had claimed support of 30 MLAs out of the 124 backing the Gehlot government, pushing the chief minister on a sticky wicket.

Read more here

'Rahul Gandhi is responsible for what's happening now in Rajasthan'

Rahul Gandhi is responsible for what's happening now in Rajasthan and happened in Madhya Pradesh. He doesn't allow young leaders in Congress to grow. He feels that if educated and able leaders like Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot get high posts then he'll be left behind: Uma Bharti, BJP.

I want to clearly state that Congress govt is stable in Rajasthan and we will complete the full term. No amount of conspiracy by BJP will be successful in toppling our government in the state: Randeep Surjewala, Congress.

If anyone, be at any post or profile, has any problem, they must come forward and mention the issue on the party forum. We will work to resolve it together and keep our govt intact in the state: Randeep Surjewala, Congress.

I appeal to all Congress MLAs that people have voted for Congress to lead a stable govt in the state, so all MLAs should take part in the Congress Legislative Party meeting today and make our govt in the state stronger: Randeep Surjewala, Congress.

Watch Congress' live press conference

It was a slip of tongue?

'Sachin Pilot was the rightful candidate for the post of Rajasthan CM'

Sachin Pilot was the rightful candidate for the post of Rajasthan CM but Ashok Gehlot took the charge, a conflict in the party began since then. What's happening today is the result of that conflict. The state government has lost the majority: Rajasthan BJP president Satish Punia.

Sachin Pilot is now in BJP: Chattisgarh Congress In-charge PL Punia to ANI

People of Rajasthan had given an opportunity to Congress to form govt in the state, they should have used it properly. CM should have kept his govt intact, but he is not able to do it. His party MLAs are not happy with him: Om Mathur, BJP.

I have tried to speak to him (Sachin Pilot) and have also sent messages to him but he hasn't replied yet. He isn't above the party. The party is ready to listen to him but no indiscipline will be tolerated. I'm hoping he will turn up for the meeting: Rajasthan Congress in-charge A Pandey to ANI.

'Congress Pres Sonia Gandhi has specially assigned me a work'

Congress Pres Sonia Gandhi has specially assigned me a work saying that if any Congrees MLA or any alliance MLA have any problem or want to discuss their problem, they can come and talk to me and we can work on it: Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pandey to ANI.

BJP will not be successful in its attempts to topple the Congress government in Rajasthan. All our Congress MLAs and our alliance MLAs are with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot; all of them will be attending the meeting of Congress Legislative Party today: Congress MLA Mahender Chaudhary.

Congress issues whip to all MLAs mandating their presence during legislature party meeting to be convened at 10.30 am by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot at his official residence in Jaipur.

Sachin Pilot being 'sidelined', shows talent and capability find 'little credence' in Congress: Jyotiraditya Scindia

With factionalism hitting the Congress government in Rajasthan, BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia took a swipe at his former party, saying talent and capability find "little credence" there.
He claimed that Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot was being "sidelined and persecuted" by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

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According to media reports, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan Sachin Pilot is likely to meet BJP President JP Nadda today.

Pilot rebels, pushes Rajasthan's Gehlot govt to the brink

The Congress government in Rajasthan was pushed to the brink on Sundayas Deputy Chief Minister SachinPilotraised a banner of revolt against Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, claiming support of 30 MLAs and some independents in the 200-member state Assembly.

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BJP in 'wait and watch' mode on Pilot's rebellion in Rajasthan

The BJP is in a "wait and watch" mode over the unfolding crisis in the Congress in Rajasthan and will wait for the outcome of the show of strength between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot before deciding on its next course of action, party sources said on Sunday.

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MLAs supporting Sachin Pilot find it 'untenable' to work under Ashok Gehlot after SOG letter to Dy CM: Sources

The MLAs supporting Pilot cannot stand the repeated undermining of Pilot, also the state PCC chief, by the Gehlot camp and the letter by the police's special operations group (SOG) sent to the deputy chief minister was to "humiliate him", sources told PTI.

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Reports had it thatPilothad the support of 16 Congress MLAs and three Independents, whom the Congress had distanced itself with for allegedly hobnobbing with the BJP.