A fresh political confrontation has erupted within Rajasthan Congress circles after former state minister Ramesh Meena challenged former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to subject him to a narco test over allegations linked to the 2020 Rajasthan political crisis. The remarks have reignited debate over one of the most turbulent episodes in the state's recent political history.
Addressing a Kisan Sammelan in Karauli, Meena strongly denied allegations that he had accepted ₹10 crore during the 2020 rebellion led by Sachin Pilot's camp against the Ashok Gehlot government. Responding to claims from Gehlot's supporters that some rebel legislators were offered money to destabilize the Congress administration, Meena said he was prepared to undergo a narco analysis test to prove his innocence.
“I challenge you to conduct a narco test on me and prove that I took ₹10 crore,” Meena said. He further demanded that a similar test be conducted on Gehlot as well, alleging that questions should also be raised about political dealings involving independent and other legislators during that period.
Meena was among the Congress MLAs who sided with Sachin Pilot during the dramatic 2020 political crisis in Rajasthan. The rebellion brought the Gehlot-led government close to collapse and triggered weeks of political uncertainty. The standoff was eventually resolved after intervention by the Congress high command, although Pilot lost his positions as Deputy Chief Minister and Rajasthan Congress president.
The former minister accused Gehlot's camp of repeatedly reviving the bribery allegations whenever the Congress appears to regain political momentum. He argued that the charges have never been backed by concrete evidence and are being used for political purposes. Meena also took a swipe at Gehlot's leadership record, claiming the party suffered significant electoral setbacks despite Gehlot serving three terms as Rajasthan Chief Minister.
The latest exchange highlights continuing tensions between leaders aligned with Sachin Pilot and those loyal to Ashok Gehlot. Political observers note that despite the Congress leadership's efforts to project unity, the rivalry between the two camps remains a recurring issue in Rajasthan politics.
So far, Ashok Gehlot has not publicly responded to Meena's latest challenge. However, the remarks have once again brought the events of the 2020 Rajasthan crisis back into the political spotlight, with both factions continuing to trade accusations over what transpired during the rebellion.
