Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took a swipe at former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot on Monday, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of experience and urging youth to exercise patience while waiting for their opportunities. Speaking to reporters after voting in the party’s presidential elections in Jaipur, Gehlot endorsed Mallikarjun Kharge and criticized leaders like Jyotiraditya Scindia, R P N Singh, and Jitin Prasada, who defected from the Congress to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), labeling them as “opportunists.”

Gehlot remarked, “Those displaying fitoor (madness) are the ones who were given opportunities early in their careers. They should have faced struggles before being given a chance, but instead, they received it prematurely. Hence, they are displaying fitoor and leaving the party.” Pointing to Scindia, Singh, and Prasada, Gehlot highlighted their swift elevation to Minister of State positions with significant portfolios. He questioned the rationale behind leaving the party even after such advancements, deeming it a clear manifestation of opportunism.

Encouraging the youth to exercise patience, Gehlot asserted that their time would come, and rushing could lead to stumbling blocks. Responding to queries about those within the Congress causing unrest, he advised them to emulate the hard work and perseverance demonstrated during challenging times. Gehlot extended his best wishes to those remaining in the Congress, emphasizing the need to work diligently during times of crisis, asserting that success would bring opportunities and enhance credibility and respect within the party.

Regarding the CBI summoning Delhi’s Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, Gehlot broadened the perspective, noting similar instances across the country where agencies like ED, Income Tax, and CBI conducted raids. Reflecting on past political crises, he recalled simultaneous raids while staying in a hotel, questioning the motives behind specific raids and highlighting instances involving individuals like Dharmendra Rathore.

Addressing former CM Vasundhara Raje’s allegations about unemployment leading to migration from Rajasthan, Gehlot attributed her statements to the political circumstances created by the BJP, stating that it is natural for her to seek relevance. Despite not minding her remarks, he underscored the injustice he perceived the BJP was inflicting on her, emphasizing that such treatment had not been witnessed within his party. Drawing on his own experiences as a former CM, Gehlot highlighted the respect he received within the party, emphasizing that respectful behavior should be maintained even towards former leaders.