Jaipur : Political tensions in Rajasthan have intensified following the Anti-Corruption Bureau’s (ACB) recent action in the Agriculture Department. Congress leaders have raised allegations against Agriculture Minister Kirori Lal Meena, prompting a strong defense from Education Minister Madan Dilawar.
Responding to the accusations, Dilawar said, “If Kirori Lal Meena is dishonest, then Madan Dilawar can never be considered honest either.”
The minister stated that he has known Kirori Lal Meena since his student days and described him as a leader with a clean and impartial public image. He urged the opposition to introspect before leveling allegations against others.
Dilawar Attacks Congress Over Corruption Allegations
Launching a sharp attack on the Congress, Dilawar questioned former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over the alleged Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scam.
“How much money from the JJM scam reached Ashok Gehlot?” Dilawar asked, while demanding answers from the former chief minister regarding allegations linked to the case.
He also claimed that Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra could face legal consequences similar to those faced by former minister Mahesh Joshi.
Government Following Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption
Commenting on the ACB action in the Agriculture Department, Dilawar said that corruption can occur in any department, but action against those involved demonstrates the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.
He emphasized that merely meeting or interacting with a minister or government official should not be considered evidence of involvement in corrupt activities.
“The BJP government is working on the principles of transparency and accountability. No one involved in corruption will be spared,” he said.
Questions Raised for Former CM Ashok Gehlot
Dilawar further alleged that the public deserves answers regarding the financial irregularities linked to the Jal Jeevan Mission project.
He also called on Gehlot to clarify issues related to cases involving former IAS officer Subodh Agarwal, arguing that Congress leaders should address questions surrounding their own tenure before criticizing the current government.
‘Dotasra Could Face Jail After Probe’
The Education Minister also targeted Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra, noting that an investigation against him is currently underway by the Special Operations Group (SOG).
Dilawar claimed that once the investigation is completed, Dotasra may face legal action similar to Mahesh Joshi.
“Congress leaders should first answer allegations related to their own tenure instead of questioning the BJP government,” he said.
Remarks on Congress Internal Disputes
Responding to a question regarding Congress leader Sachin Pilot, Dilawar commented on the party’s internal conflicts.
He said it was inappropriate in politics for leaders to publicly describe their own colleagues or associates as incompetent, ineffective, or deceitful.
“Such language and behavior are not considered appropriate in political discourse,” he remarked.
ACB Action Reflects Government Transparency
Welcoming the ACB’s action in cases related to fake seeds and alleged corruption in the Agriculture Department, Dilawar described it as an example of the government’s transparent governance model.
He reiterated that the BJP government’s message is clear: corruption at any level will be investigated, and those found guilty will face action.
Civic and Panchayat Elections
On the issue of municipal and panchayat elections, Dilawar said the Congress lacked the moral authority to criticize the government, claiming that elections were delayed for extended periods during the previous Congress administration.
He added that after receiving the OBC Commission’s report and in accordance with court directives, the government would consult legal experts before moving forward with the election process. The matter will also be discussed in a Cabinet meeting before a final decision is taken.