BJP or new party: Sachin Pilot leaves Congress guessing
What's the story
Rajasthan Congress leader Sachin Pilot has left the party in a fix over his probable move as the state nears elections.
Pilot is reportedly waiting for the party's response to his three "unwavering" demands, based on which he is likely to decide on his next step—whether to stay with Congress, switch to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), or start his own party.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The political crisis in Rajasthan is worsening with the state Assembly elections, slated for later this year, approaching.
The rift between Pilot and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has played out in the open increasingly over the past months. Infighting within the party triggered a political crisis in 2020, which saw then-deputy CM Pilot and 18 other MLAs rebel against Gehlot's administration.
Demands
Pilot likely to announce decision after father's death anniversary
Pilot is expected to announce his final decision after Sunday, which is the death anniversary of his father, Rajesh Pilot, a veteran Congress leader.
Pilot has demanded the Congress probe the corruption allegations against BJP leader and former CM Vasundhara Raje, disband the Rajasthan Public Service Commission, and compensate those affected by the question paper leaks of government job exams.
Details
Media stirring up the issue: Rajasthan Congress in-charge
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Congress general secretary in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa rubbished the possibility of Pilot leaving the party and forming a new outfit.
When questioned by reporters, he said, "I am hearing this from you, I think there is no such thing. Pilot did not have this in his mind before and does not have it now," and blamed the media for fanning the issue.
Meeting
90% of Pilot's issues resolved: Randhawa
Last week, Pilot and Gehlot met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leaders Rahul Gandhi and KC Venugopal in Delhi.
Randhawa said 90% of Pilot's issues have been resolved, adding that both leaders said they will work together.
Pilot has reportedly refused a post in the central leadership offered by the party as he is reluctant to move out of Rajasthan before the elections.