Rajasthan Govt Crisis LIVE Updates: HC issues notice to Speaker Joshi on BSP-Cong merger

Rajasthan High Court issues notice to Assembly Speaker CP Joshi over BJP leader Madan Dilawar's petition against the merger of 6 BSP MLAs with Congress and directs him to reply by tomorrow. Next hearing at 10.30 am tomorrow.

Ahead of the Rajasthan Assembly being convened on August 14, the Rajasthan High Court will hear all petitions in the alleged horse-trading case on August 13. While Rajasthan SOG has approached the Rajasthan HC for seeking audio samples of accused Sanjay Jain, another accused MLA Bhanwar Lal has approached the Court seeking dismissal of the FIR against him. The court will hear all pleas in this issue on August 13. Currently, the court has ordered maintaining status quo in the issue - essentially staying disqualification proceedings against former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and 18 MLAs. 

Even as the crisis in Rajasthan's politics continues, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala has hinted at a breakthrough between former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and CM Ashok Gehlot camp. He said that Pilot and MLAs in his camp should give away the 'hospitality' of the BJP and then there can be talks between them and the party.

Speaking to ANI, Randeep Surjewala said, "The Congress MLAs who are staying at the resort in Manesar should shun the hospitality and police security of the BJP govt in Haryana and return to the party, then we can hold talks."

In a significant move, the Ashok Gehlot cabinet on Sunday, amended the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules 2010 to include reservations for Gurjars. As per the amended rules, candidates from the most backward class (MBC), including Gurjars will get  5% reservation in Rajasthan Judicial Services instead of the earlier 1%. This move comes amid Congress' most prominent Gurjar leader -  Sachin Pilot rebelling against the party.

The "silence" of senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje Scindia on the political developments in Rajasthan can be a "strategy", her party colleague and Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat said on Sunday.

In an interview to PTI, Shekhawat, who has been accused by Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot of trying to topple his government, also alleged that it was the Congress leader who had orchestrated the political drama in the state to target his rivals in the party and outside.

He has been unable to digest that I defeated his son in Lok Sabha elections and is trying everything against me, by hook or by crook to avenge his defeat, said Shekhawat, who represents Jodhpur and had defeated Vaibhav Gehlot in the 2019 Lok Sabha election by more than 2.74 lakh votes.

Underlining that the BJP has nothing to do with the political crisis in Rajasthan, Shekhawat maintained that it is the fallout of the infighting in the Congress involving Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot.

After Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot on Saturday urged PM Modi to get the alleged attempt to topple his government stopped and said he is open to welcoming back the Congress rebels led by Sachin Pilot, an MLA from Gehlot camp has dedicated a song to the former Deputy CM.

Congress MLA hints at welcoming Pilot

In a video surfacing on social media, from the Jaisalmer resort where the MLAs of Gehlot camp are staying, Rajendra Pareek can be heard singing the song "Koi Jab Tumhara Hriday Tod De" for Pilot and other MLAs hinting that the members of the party are willing to welcome the rebel leaders back.

He also targetted Gajendra Singh Shekhawat saying "His name has come up in Sanjivini Cooperative Society (alleged scam). Court has also directed in the matter. He should resign on moral grounds."

Talking about BSP supremo, he said, "Mayawati behenji is under the pressure of CBI and ED... BSP MLAs in the state merged with Congress as per law. When 4 TDP MPs came with BJP in Rajya Sabha no one questioned that."

Talking about Pilot and rebel MLAs return to Congress, CM Ashok Gehlot says, "Depends on the high command. If the high command forgives the rebel MLAs & Sachin Pilot, then I am also ready to welcome them. I am serving Rajasthan and I have been Chief Minister thrice. I have been a Union Minister, I am doing only what I am doing for service. I accept whatever the high command decides."

Lashing out at Rajasthan BJP leaders, he added," Leaders like Satish Poonia have become newcomers. They want to compete with Vasundhara but will not be able to take it. There is no point in it as Vasundhara herself has disappeared".

Amid a long-drawn political crisis in Rajasthan, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Rajasthan Police is all set to move the High Court to take the voice sample of Sanjay Jain. Jain has been arrested by the Police allegedly for discussing a plot to topple the state government as per audio tapes that surfaced amid the chaos in the Rajasthan government.

On Friday, Jain was produced before a local court where he refused to give his voice sample, saying he does not have faith in the SOG probe and the Forensic Science Laboratory report can be manipulated. Thereafter, ADG (SOG) Ashok Rathore said that the Police will move HC  and seek direction to get his voice sample. 

"As the accused disagreed to give his voice sample in the lower court, we will take further legal steps and approach the High Court in this matter against him," ADG (SOG) Ashok Rathore said. Rathore also said an SOG team has been camping in Manesar of Haryana to trace rebel Congress MLA Bhanwarlal Sharma.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot justified the shifting of Congress MLAs to Jaisalmer by alleging horse-trading attempts. He claimed that party MLAs and their families were being pressurized after the Assembly session was summoned by Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra. Also, he accused BJP of offering money up to any extent to lure the legislators. 

The Rajasthan CM maintained that he had no other option left to tackle such horse-trading attempts. On this occasion, he asserted that it was every citizen's duty to safeguard democracy. Stressing that the Congress MLAs were being harassed mentally in Jaipur, he expressed hope that the pressure will be less in Jaisalmer.   

Rajasthan BJP chief Satish Poonia slammed the Congress party for shifting its MLAs from Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur to Jaisalmer. He contended that Congress MLAs were being held hostage despite Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's regular stress on democracy, ethics, and Constitution. According to him, this pattern was witnessed even during Gehlot's earlier tenure as CM in 2008.  

Poonia questioned the need to keep all Congress legislators together if there was unity in the party. Thereafter, he alleged that the relatives of the MLAs are being harassed. Urging Gehlot to free the legislators and run the government, he claimed that there is a big crisis in Rajasthan. 

Rajasthan Assembly Congress chief whip Mahesh Joshi approached the Supreme Court against the July 24 order of the Rajasthan High Court decision to defer disqualification proceedings against former deputy CM Sachin Pilot and 18 other MLAs.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot questioned the double-standards on the 6 BSP MLAs joining the Congress party. He highlighted how 10 out of 15 Congress MLAs in Goa and 4 TDP MPs in Rajya Sabha had joined BJP. According to him, the decision of the 6 BSP MLAs in Rajasthan to join Congress cannot be wrong as such a merger in earlier cases had been deemed valid. 

50 MLA belonging to the camp of Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot camp reached Jaisalmer. They were received by Gehlot's friend and politician Badri Ram Jakhar. 

As per sources, the Congress MLAs shall be flown to Jaisalmer after the meeting of the Legislative Party ends at the Fairmont Hotel on July 31. As per sources, the MLAs will stay there until the commencement of the Assembly session on August 14. Sources added that MLAs have been directed to pack their bags. The Congress party is reportedly taking this step as there is a lack of trust in some of the legislators. A total of 95 MLAs is likely to be sent to Jaisalmer via charter planes. 

Refuting the charge that he delayed summoning the Assembly session due to the pressure of the Centre, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra on Thursday asserted that the Constitution is supreme for him. He also added that the Ashok Gehlot-led government should take of the common man. Maintaining that continuous attempts should be made to spread awareness among the masses to curb COVID-19, he called for an atmosphere to be created where the people will not fear the virus. Mishra called upon the state government to take all possible steps to check the spread of novel coronavirus. 

Speaking to the media, Rajasthan Minister Pratap Khachariyawas stated that all Congress MLAs are enthusiastic. He contended, "Opposition MLAs are happy too as everyone knows that people and leaders of Rajasthan wanted that Constitution to be respected. Governor gave a date for the convening of Assembly Session (August 14). We have a full majority."

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot stated that he still wanted that the unhappy MLAs should attend the assembly session as they have been elected on the Congress symbol. He opined that it was his responsibility to ensure that they are seen standing with the government in front of the public. Moreover, he expressed happiness that the Governor had accepted his request to call the Assembly session sooner as any more delay could have resulted in further horse-trading.

Maintaining that horse-trading took place, he asserted that the Congress government would complete its full term. Meanwhile, Gehlot alleged that Mayawati is acting under the pressure of BJP owing to the scare of  ED, CBI, and the Income Tax department. According to him, there was no reason for complaining as all the 6 BSP MLAs had joined Congress as per their conscience. 

Another meeting of the Congress Legislature party shall take place at 10 am on July 31. The meeting will be held at the Fairmont Hotel, where all MLAs belonging to the Gehlot faction are holed up. Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, state in-charge Avinash Pande, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala and Ajay Maken will be present in the meeting. 

The Rajasthan High Court issued notice to the Speaker and the Secretary of the Legislative Assembly, and 6 Congress-turned- BSP MLAs in connection with the merger of the BSP MLAs with Congress party, in the state. The court asked them to file a reply by August 11.

As per sources, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot told the MLAs at the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting that they will have to stay at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur till August 14, when the Assembly session commences. At the same time, he reportedly clarified that Ministers can visit Secretariat to complete their work.

Rajasthan: Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot begins at Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur.

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra approved the proposal to summon the session of the Legislative Assembly from August 14. As per sources, a warrant will be sent to the state government from the Raj Bhavan in a short time. 

Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi moved the Supreme Court challenging the Rajasthan High Court's verdict dated July 24. A division bench of the Rajasthan HC comprising Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta ordered a "status quo" on the Assembly Speaker's notices issued to sacked Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs. This implies that the Speaker was barred from taking any coercive action against the Pilot camp until the HC concludes hearing the matter. 

In a statement, the Rajasthan Police's Special Operations Group mentioned that the Best Western Resort in Manesar, Gurugram was served a notice on July 23. The hotel administration informed that it is a COVID centre and no MLAs are staying there. Similarly, information was sought from the administration of Heritage Village Hotel in Manesar, Gurugram. They also informed that no MLAs are staying there. 

As per sources, the Rajasthan government sent a revised proposal to Governor Kalraj Mishra seeking the Assembly session to be summoned on August 14. Speaking to the media, Rajasthan Minister Pratap Khachariyawas confirmed this development. He expressed hope that Mishra would accept the proposal on this occasion. 

Amid the ongoing impasse over summoning a special Assembly session, Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi called on Governor Kalraj Mishra at the Raj Bhavan in Jaipur. 

In a twist in the Rajasthan political crisis, sacked PCC chief Sachin Pilot extended his best wishes to his successor Govind Singh Dotasra. The latter had succeeded Pilot. He expressed hope that Dotasra would ensure due respect for all political workers responsible for the formation of the government without any pressure or prejudice. 

The Rajasthan High Court will continue hearing BJP MLA Madan Dilawar's petition against the merger of six BSP MLAs with Congress party at 2 pm on Thursday.

Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra returned the state government's proposal to summon a special session of the Assembly for the third time in a row. This comes a day after the Ashok Gehlot-led government had sent a revised proposal containing the response to the three queries posed by the Governor. According to Mishra, the state government insisted that he was not only bound to accept its recommendation but also had no right to know the reasons behind it.

At this juncture, the Governor highlighted that the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly rules mandated a 21-day notice to all the MLAs. Thereafter, he asked the Rajasthan government to furnish the reasons for demanding the Assembly session at such short notice. Mishra maintained that a floor test with social maintaining norms was a valid reason to summon the special Assembly session. At the same time, he opined that it would be appropriate to commence the Monsoon session of the Assembly with a notice of 21 days in the current circumstances.

Amid the heated political tussle in Rajasthan, in an interesting development on Wednesday, former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot has extended his greetings to Speaker CP Joshi on his birthday. Taking to Twitter, Pilot extended his best wishes to the Speaker and said that he prays for the Speaker's good health and long life. This comes as Pilot along with his 18 MLAs is engaged in a court battle with Speaker CP Joshi over their disqualification notices issued by the latter. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also extended his wishes to the assembly Speaker. 

As the Rajasthan political crisis continues without an end in sight, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel has said that the reluctancy of Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra to convene the assembly session despite repeated proposals from Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot sets a 'dangerous precedent.'

Taking to Twitter on Wednesday, Patel claimed that this is happening 'the first time in the history' of India that a Governor is not ready to convene assembly despite 'aid and advice of elected chief minister.' Pointing out the dangers that would follow such action, the senior Congress leader teased a speculative situation asking, 'What will happen if Rashtrapati refuses to summon Parliament despite Union Cabinet recommending it?'

The Bahujan Samaj Party on Wednesday filed a writ petition in the Rajasthan High Court challenging the merger of six BSP MLAs with the ruling Congress in Rajasthan.

Sandeep Yadav, Wajib Ali, Deepchand Kheria, Lakhan Meena, Jogendra Awana and Rajendra Gudha contested and won the 2018 assembly elections on BSP tickets. They all defected to the Congress in September 2019.

BSP state president Bhagwan Singh Baba said, "We have today filed a writ petition in the high court against the merger of BSP MLAs with Congress".  

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot’s brother Agrasain Gehlot has been summoned by ED in the fertiliser scam,a s per sources. He has been asked to appear before ED tomorrow.

Rajasthan MLA Bhanwar Lal Sharma files petition before High Court seeking National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe in alleged horse-trading case. The petition also seeks to quash Special Operations Group (SOG) FIR registered against him in the case.

BSP to file a plea in Rajasthan High Court tomorrow against the merger of six BSP MLAs in the state with Congress party.

Sources report that the Gehlot governmenr has sent a fresh proposal to the Governor to convene the state assembly from 31st July. The proposal includes the Government's reply on the 3 conditions to be met to convene the session, report Sources

BJP MLA Madan Dilawar on Tuesday filed a fresh writ petition in the Rajasthan High Court challenging the decision of the state assembly speaker to reject his complaint over six BSP MLAs joining the Congress.  The high court on Monday dismissed Dilawar's writ petition as "having become infructuous" as the speaker had passed an order on the complaint. 

In the petition, he had questioned speaker's inaction on his complaint which he had filed in March this year, asking for the BSP MLAs to be disqualified from the membership of the Rajasthan Assembly as they had incurred disqualification under para 2 of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution.  In the fresh plea, the MLA on Tuesday challenged the validity, legality and correctness of the order passed by the speaker on July 24 on the complaint.  Dilawar alleged that he was not heard by the speaker while taking a decision. 

As the Rajasthan political crisis spirals, a former ally of Congress in Karnataka - JDS' HD Kumaraswamy has lashed out at the party's 'save democracy' protest. The Congress party is protesting against the BJP claiming that they are conspiring to topple the Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan.

However, its former ally and former Chief Minister of Karnataka has taken to Twitter and slammed the Congress for following the same means i.e buying MLAs of other parties. This comes soon after BSP supremo Mayawati threatened Ashok Gehlot that she would move SC if Congress-turned BSP MLAs do not vote against Congress.

Kumaraswamy reminded Congress of how it broke the JDS in the past by making big buzz about legislators' purchase. He sought answers from the party reminding them that during the time of SM Krishna's Congress government, they bought the MLAs. 

"During the Congress-JDS government of 2004, this same Congress was trying to attract our legislators. Realizing this, I had to make a rapid political revolution. Congress is an expert in the process of breaking up parties and buying legislators. The language of the 'horse trading' was born from the Congress."

Amid the political chaos in Rajasthan, a city-based lawyer has filed a petition in the High Court seeking directions to the central government to advise the President to remove Governor Kalraj Mishra. The petitioner, Shantanu Pareek, claimed that the governor has failed to fulfil his constitutional obligations by not calling a session of the Assembly as recommended by the state cabinet.

The Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government, which is facing a political crisis after a rebellion by the now sacked deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other dissident MLAs, says it wants to hold an Assembly session and has forwarded its recommendations to the governor. Governor Mishra has returned the cabinet recommendations for calling an Assembly session twice with queries and suggestions to the state government. 

A day after issuing a whip to her party MLAs in Rajasthan, BSP supremo Mayawati on Tuesday threatened that the party will move the Supreme Court if the whip is not followed and lashed out at CM Ashok Gehlot for his 'malicious intent.'

Addressing the media, Mayawati said that after the Rajasthan elections results BSP gave unconditional support of all its 6 MLAs to Congress but CM Gehlot intended to damage BSP and therefore merged the MLAs with Congress 'unconstitutionally'. The BSP supremo said that her party was looking for an apt time to go to the court and to teach Congress a lesson.

"Rajasthan Government led by Ashok Gehlot is in majority and wants to convene the State Assembly session. We want to discuss important matters including COVID19 with the opposition in the Assembly," said State Congress in-charge Avinash Pande. Addressing the rebels, he added," If the MLAs of Sachin Pilot camp apologize to the party, then doors are open for them".

He added, "If necessary we will all go to the President and will protect our democracy. Video of our 102 MLAs requesting the President has been loaded on Facebook and Twitter today. There is no whip chief in BSP. This is all BJP's tactics, I am very thankful to the Court that they dismiss their plea"

Hemaram Choudhary, MLA, Sachin Pilot camp says, "10-15 MLAs of Ashok Gehlot camp are in contact with us & are saying they will come to our side as soon as they are set free. If Gehlot removes restrictions, it'll become clear how many MLAs remain on their side".

Returning CM Ashok Gehlot's proposal to him, Governor Kalraj Mishra has asked if Gehlot wants a trust vote in the state assembly, as it was not mentioned in the proposal to reconvene the Assembly on July 31. Mishra has suggested Gehlot to give 21-day notice to convene the Assembly as it would be difficult to call all the MLAs at such a short time. All 19 MLAs of Pilot's faction including Pilot himself are spread around the Delhi-Haryana region, with the SOG hunting some of them to issue notices.

Rajasthan Governor expresses concern over present law and order situation of the state and has sent sent a report to the central govt mentioning the sloganeering done by MLAs on 24th July. He said that Congress MLAs were trying to corner Raj Bhavan. Congress had staged a 'Raj Bahwan Gherao' protest on Monday in all states except Rajasthan.

Contradicting the party's whip, Rajasthan's BSP MLA Lakhan Singh, on Monday, said that he and his 5 BSP colleagues did not receive any notice from BSP regarding voting against Congress, while talking to reporters. Reiterating his support to Congress, he said that all 6 MLAs would support Gehlot no matter what. Accusing BSP of remembering about them only now, he said this whip was issued by the BSP on the orders of BJP.

Nearly 60 Gujarat Congress workers, leaders detained by police when they marched towards Raj Bhavan in Gandhinagar to protest against BJP over #Rajasthan political crisis

In a setback to the Opposition BJP, the Rajasthan High Court, on Monday, dismissed the plea filed by BJP opposing the merger of 6 Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLAs into Congress in the state. This move occurs after the BSP had issued a whip to its 6 MLAs instructing them to vote against the Congress in the event of a 'No Confidence Motion' or any other proceedings in the Rajasthan Assembly session, failing which they would be disqualified.  All six BSP MLAs had merged with Congress in September 2019 - which has been challenged by the BJP and BSP.

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the behaviour of Governor Kalraj Mishra, as per sources. The Congress party has been demanding a special session amid the political crisis due to a rebellion by Sachin Pilot and a section of Congress legislators supporting the former deputy Chief Minister. The Governor has not yet accepted Congress' demands.

Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi on Monday withdrew his plea from Supreme Court against the High Court order asking him to defer his decision on disqualification notices issued to former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Rajasthan Speaker told the court that Speaker wants to withdraw his plea challenging the High Court jurisdiction to interfere in pending proceedings on disqualification petition against 19 rebel MLAs. A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra, B R Gavai and Krishna Murari allowed the Speaker to withdraw the plea.

After issuing a whip to its 6 MLAs, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Sunday said that President's rule should be imposed in Rajasthan in view of the political crisis and COVID-19 situation in the state.

"BSP chief Mayawati had issued a press note over the state's current situation where she said that when people are suffering due to the pandemic, the government, on the other hand, locks their MLAs in a five-star hotel instead of letting them work for public welfare. BSP believes that in view of the current situation in the state, President's rule should be imposed in Rajasthan," Satish Chandra Misra, the party's national general secretary, told ANI.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) issued a whip to its 6 MLAs instructing them to vote against the Congress in the event of a 'No Confidence Motion' or any other proceedings in the Rajasthan Assembly session. The six BSP MLAs- R Gudha, Lakhan Singh, Deep Chand, JS Awana, Sandeep Kumar, and Wajib Ali have been instructed to follow the whip failing which they would entail disqualification. All six BSP MLAs had merged with Congress in September 2019 - which has not been recognised by BSP.

If they do not support Gehlot, there is a possibility of the Congress government being reduced to a minority. This development comes even as a single-judge bench of the Rajasthan HC will hear the petition filed by BJP MLA Madan Dilawar on July 27 seeking the quashing of the merger of the BSP MLAs with Congress. The plea has also challenged the Assembly Speaker's inaction in not deciding his plea seeking the disqualification of the BSP MLAs from the Assembly. 

Amplifying the Congress' anti-BJP protest titled 'Speak Up for Democracy', Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) chief Govind Singh Dotasra, on Sunday, announced that Congress supporters will stage a nationwide protest on Monday. He announced that supporters will stage support in front of Raj Bhavan in all the states of the country, except Rajasthan. Assuring Governor Kalraj Mishra that no such protest will be held in Rajasthan, he said that they hoped he will convene the state Assembly soon.

Governor Kalraj Mishra took a meeting with top police officials, the governor held a high-level meeting regarding security arrangements

Sources state Congress is allegedly not interested in fighting a legal battle. Speaker CP Joshi may take back his plea in SC tomorrow.

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. Sources added that a floor test is not part of the proposal. Reportedly, the Rajasthan CM only wants to show strength, hence he has called for the session. COVID-19 has been mentioned as the main agenda for the session. 

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

Chief Minister is the head of the state & he said he'll not be responsible for a breach in law and order situation. If not him, then who'll be responsible? He should tender resignation for using such language: Gulab Chand Kataria, BJP after party delegation met Rajasthan Governor

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

"We will go to Rashtrapati Bhawan to meet the President, if needed. Also, if required, we will stage protest outside PM's residence," says Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. 

Rajasthan CM to meet Governor at 4 pm. He has left Fairmont Hotel & is enroute Rajbhavan

Rajasthan: BJP delegation led by State BJP President Satish Punia and Leader of Opposition Gulab Chandra Kataria will meet Governor Kalraj Mishra at Raj Bhawan later today, over #COVID19 situation in the state.

In a late-night cabinet meeting on Friday, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot 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, as per sources. The governor had earlier sought a reply on the six points from the state government, including about the reason to call a session of the Assembly for a floor test. The cabinet note to the governor is likely to be forwarded on Saturday, the sources said.

As Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot issued a threat to Governor Kalraj Mishra amid a political crisis in the state, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) leader & Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal demanded CM's resignation. He said that CM's remark regarding the governor and Raj Bhawan were 'an insult to democratic setup'. Beniwal's party is a constituent of the NDA and has three legislators in Rajasthan.

He alleged that at a time people are suffering and the Disaster Management Act is in force, ministers and MLAs are staying in hotel for several days. "The chief minister is talking about surrounding the Raj Bhawan. If we call upon the public, people will come on the streets to depose him," the RLP leader said. "If the chief minister is left with some morality, he should come forward to tender his resignation for his statements. His government is in the minority and he is losing self-control. The government is functioning from a five-star hotel. People are suffering and the government is functioning in an unconstitutional manner which is an insult to a democratic system," he added.

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

Special Operations Group (SOG), #Rajasthan issues notices to Tanveer Singh, Balwant Singh, Digvijaya Raj Singh and Karni Singh.

Prior to the Rajasthan Speaker challenging the status quo order issued by the Rajasthan High Court, former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and his supporting MLAs have filed a caveat petition in the Supreme Court on Friday. The petition states that if the speaker moves the Supreme Court challenging the status quo order by the Rajasthan HC today, no order should be passed by the Supreme Court without hearing the Pilot camp. The apex court is scheduled to hear the Speaker's plea on Monday.

Sources state that Fairmont Hotel - where Gehlot's MLAs have been holed up - is promoted by SOG head Anil Paliwal's wife - Sarika Paliwal and others in association with Triton Hotel which allegedly owns Fairmont Hotel. Moreover, dossiers accessed by ED show a Rs 90 crore transaction between Fairmont Hotel stakeholder Ratan Kant Sharma and Sarika Paliwal. Sharma is currently under the ED & I-T scanner for alleged tax evasion and Benami transactions. The ED has already raided several aides of CM Ashok Gehlot - including his brother Agrasen Gehlot in connection with an alleged scam in exporting fertilisers.

MLA Murari Lal Meena, who supports Sachin Pilot, says, "We are staying in Delhi. CM Ashok Gehlot said we are held hostage by BJP, it's untrue as we were never in touch with them. On the contrary, our families are sacred due to use of SOG by CM."

After the Rajasthan High Court ordered to maintain the status quo in the state, CM Ashok Gehlot and his supporting MLAs on Friday, 'gheraoed' the Raj Bhawan, refusing to vacate from there till Governor Kalraj Mishra allows to call an Assembly session. Mishra has maintained that he cannot permit calling an Assembly session yet as the matter is sub judicial. He has conveyed to Gehlot who met him in his office that he is seeking legal opinion on it.

Sanjay Jain (who was arrested by SOG - Special Operations Group #Rajasthan Police) sent to judicial custody till 5th August. Sanjay Jain's voice spectrography test is scheduled for 29th July.

After demanding commencement of the state Assembly session, Congress MLAs supporting CM Ashok Gehlot camp outside Raj Bhawan, raising slogans. CM Ashok Gehlot met with Governor Kalraj Mishra this afternoon over the issue of the convening of the Assembly Session. The governor has come out to meet the MLAs now.

Here are the visuals:

After the cabinet meeting on Friday, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot alleged that Centre is pressurising the Governor to not allow assembly sessions in the state. Revealing that he had demanded assembly session to prove his majority in the House, Gehlot said that even after repeated requests, Governor Kalraj Mishra has not responded, adding that he is acting under Centre's pressure. Moreover, Gehlot issues a threat to the Governor saying that if he doesn't allow the session, people of the state might gherao the Raj Bhavan and he would not take responsibility for any such incident. He also said that the Congress party is heading towards the Raj Bhavan to make the request for assembly session once again.

Gehlot briefed the media and claimed that the Governor is being threatened. "I met the Governor and discussed a number of things including Corona crisis. I had hoped that he will respond by the evening but he didn't. I cannot understand this, because there is a simple process and when the request has been made then-Governor has to give the orders, I believe that due to pressure from above he is not allowing us an assembly session," he said.

After impleading Centre, Rajasthan HC keeps status quo on Pilot and MLAs' plea challenging Speaker's disqualification notice, till further notice. Earlier on Thursday, in a big relief to former Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other MLAs siding with him, the Supreme Court today refused to stay the proceedings before the Rajasthan High Court in the case of their disqualification. 

Speaker of the Rajasthan Assembly Dr. CP Joshi had approached the Supreme Court in an urgent petition yesterday after the Rajasthan HC had reserved its order in the matter, requesting the Speaker of the Assembly to defer his decision on disqualification by Friday. Soon after, Sachin Pilot and his MLAs had also approached the Supreme Court in a caveat petition, stating that no orders should be passed by the Supreme Court on the issue without giving them a chance to be heard. 

Rajasthan HC makes Centre a party in the proceedings on Sachin Pilot & 18 MLAs' plea challenging disqualification notice. On Tuesday, a two-judge bench of the Rajasthan HC comprising Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta had reserved the order on the plea filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs challenging the disqualification notice issued to them by the Assembly Speaker. 

Ahead of Rajasthan High Court's verdict on Friday, CM Ashok Gehlot said, " Truth will win and we have full majority thats why we are here. Those held captive there in Manesar are calling me to set them free. During this pandemic, BJP is busy toppling governments. First they did this in MP, now they are trying here".

He added, "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. Union Ministers/MLAs/MPs give speeches so everyone knows it is their voice. Still, the first reaction always is 'it wasn't my voice'".

Ahead of Rajasthan High Court's verdict on Friday, CM Ashok Gehlot said, " Truth will win and we have full majority thats why we are here. Those held captive there in Manesar are calling me to set them free. During this pandemic, BJP is busy toppling governments. First they did this in MP, now they are trying here".

He added, "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. Union Ministers/MLAs/MPs give speeches so everyone knows it is their voice. Still, the first reaction always is 'it wasn't my voice'".

CM Ashok Gehlot, Congress PCC chief Govind Dotasara, Congress in-charge Avinash Pandey, Spokesperson Surjewala are currently in a meeting, as per sources. Sources claim that the Congress government is finalising their strategy to save itself, but are unable to decide to whether or not they call for an Assembly session.

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.

Amid the political crisis in Rajasthan, a Jaipur court has given a nod to probe into allegations against Union minister Gajendra Shekhawat in an alleged credit cooperative society scam. Shekhawat has been named in the complaint along with his wife and others in the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam in which thousands of investors allegedly lost about Rs 900 crores. While Shekhawat was not mentioned in the charge sheet filed by the SOG in connection with case, the applicants then approached the additional district judge's court. The Jaipur unit of the SOG has probed into the scam since last year. An FIR was registered on August 23, 2019.

Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs filed a petition before Rajasthan High Court requesting that Union of India, through Secretary Ministry of Law and Justice (Department of Legal Affairs), be made a Party Respondent to the present writ petition in the "interest of justice and law".

Writing an open letter to the people of Rajasthan, BJP state unit chief Satish Poonia opined that the Ashok Gehlot-led government was in minority and was trying to desperately salvage the situation. To buttress his point, he cited the tone in Gehlot's letter to PM Modi. He alleged that Congress legislators and Ministers were being held hostage to save the CM's chair. Refuting the allegation that BJP indulged in horse-trading, he highlighted the misuse of Article 356 by various Congress governments through the years. He affirmed that BJP stood in solidarity with the people of the state amid the political and COVID-19 crisis. Moreover, he promised that BJP shall do everything possible for the welfare of the people of Rajasthan. 

Read the letter here: 

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot brought to PM Modi's notice the attempt to topple the democratically elected government in the state. In a letter addressed to the PM, he claimed that Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, other BJP leaders, and some over-ambitious Congress leaders were involved in this conspiracy. He pointed out that many state governments were being destabilised violating the spirit of the anti-defection law passed by the Rajiv Gandhi-led government, which was later made more stringent during Atal Bihar Vajpayee's tenure as the PM.

While acknowledging that PM Modi might not be aware of or is being misled about the plot to oust the Rajasthan government, Gehlot warned that history will never forgive anyone who is a party to such an act. Thereafter, he exuded confidence that truth, democratic traditions, and constitutional principles will win. He stressed that the Congress government would complete its full term, rendering good governance to the people.

Read the letter here: 

The Chief Justice of India constituted a three-judge bench comprising Justices Arun Mishra, BR Gavai and Krishna Murari to hear Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi's plea on July 23. 

After a gap of around 10 days, many Ministers resumed work at the Rajasthan secretariat. Until now, the government business was being conducted from the Fairmont Hotel itself. This development comes a day after CM Ashok Gehlot told his Cabinet colleagues that work should not be affected amid the political turmoil. BJP has been constantly raising questions about the negative impact on governance owing to the conflict between Gehlot and Sachin Pilot.

As per the Supreme Court website, Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi's petition challenging the HC order is likely to come up for hearing on July 23.

Sanjay Jain who was arrested by Rajasthan Police's Special Operations Group has been sent to two-day police remand.

After the Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi challenged the HC's decision to reserve its order for July 24, Sachin Pilot and 18 other supporting MLAs filed a caveat petition in SC. They urged the court that no order should be passed without hearing their side.

After Modi Ji & his govt's tactics failed, they sent a CBI team to conduct a raid at a location of MLA Krishna Poonia, who also brought laurels to the nation in the field of sports. This was a way to put pressure on the MLAs: R Surjewala, Congress

On Tuesday, Rajasthan High Court reserved its order on the plea filed by Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs challenging the disqualification notice issued to them by the Assembly Speaker. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Speaker CP Joshi said that he will move Supreme Court challenging the decision. 

Amid the political turmoil in Rajasthan, sources on Wednesday reported that the Rajasthan government has sent its report on phone tapping to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Home Ministry had on July 18, asked the Rajasthan’s Chief Secretary to submit a report after BJP alleged illegalities on phone tapping in the state.

As per sources, sacked Deputy CM Sachin Pilot has sent a legal notice to Congress MLA Giriraj Singh Malinga. On Monday, BSP-turned-Congress MLA Giriraj Singh Malinga had accused Pilot of offering him money ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls to join BJP. Maintaining that there were attempts to topple the Rajasthan government since December 2019, he informed the reporters that he had alerted CM Ashok Gehlot about this conspiracy. While refusing to disclose the amount of money offered, he alleged that the talks were held at Pilot's residence. 

The Rajasthan Cabinet chaired by CM Ashok Gehlot took a number of decisions to ameliorate the problems faced by the people due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown. First, the state government has decided to provide Rs.1000 to 35 lakh needy families affected by the lockdown, for which Rs.351 crore will be spent. During the lockdown, Rs.2500 had been given to needy families. 

Mentioning that the tourism and hotel industry had been adversely affected, Gehlot noted that the livelihoods of lakhs of people are at stake. He announced that more benefits would be extended to tourism, hotel, and multiplex sector units under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme 2019. Meanwhile, the Cabinet has approved restarting public transport with social distancing measures. Thus, city buses and autorickshaws will able to ply again. In another big move, the Rajasthan government has allowed MLAs to spend Rs.1 crore out of the Rs.2 crore MLA-LAD funds for purposes other than medical facilities. This is being perceived as an attempt to pacify upset legislators amid the political turmoil in the state. 

Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi left from the Vidhan Sabha after discussing Rajasthan HC's order with the Assembly Secretary. He informed the lawyers of both camps that he is deferring the disqualification proceedings till 5:30 pm on July 24 as requested by the High Court.

The Rajasthan Police's Special Operations Group revealed that the bail petition of Bharat Malani, an accused in the horse-trading case had been rejected. Moreover, it added that Rs.1.25 crore had been recovered from three people in two cars at Udaipur. They are being questioned regarding the money.  

Rajasthan Speaker CP Joshi has reached the Vidhan Sabha to discuss the Rajasthan High Court's order with State Assembly Secretary. The HC has fixed July 24 to deliver the order on the petition by Sachin Pilot and18 other MLAs against the Speaker's disqualification notice and asked the Speaker not to act on the notices till then.

The Cabinet meeting chaired by Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot has concluded. During the meeting, the Health Minister presented a report regarding the COVID-19 situation in the state. The CM sought suggestions from his Cabinet colleagues over financial matters. Moreover, he asked all Ministers to promote the welfare schemes of the state government. As per sources, the prevailing political situation was also discussed. 

Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande and party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala have left the Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur for Delhi. They are likely to brief former Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the latest political developments in the state. 

Government chip whip Mahesh Joshi revealed details of what transpired in Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's meeting with Congress legislators at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. Asserting that the victory would be theirs, he lauded the MLAs for fighting to save democracy. He maintained that the government was completely stable and would complete its 5-year tenure.

He condemned Sachin Pilot and some other MLAs for conspiring with BJP to topple the government at a juncture when it is fighting against COVID-19 on a war-footing. On this occasion, he thanked the RLD MLA, two BTP MLAs, and Independents for supporting the state government. Moreover, he exuded confidence that the CPM would also support the Congress party. During the meeting, all the MLA unanimously expressed support for the party and Gehlot. 

The Rajasthan Cabinet meeting will be held at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence at 4 pm. As per sources, he has left Fairmont Hotel for his residence after the Congress Legislative Party meeting. The meeting is likely to discuss the novel coronavirus situation, Rajasthan's financial condition and social welfare schemes. 

The Rajasthan HC reserved its order on the petition by Sachin Pilot and 18 supporting MLAs challenging the Assembly Speaker's disqualification notice. It has has been challenged on numerous grounds including the Assembly not being in session and that the MLAs had not indulged in anti-party activities. The order will be pronounced on July 24. Until then, no action shall be taken by the Speaker against Pilot and his group of his MLAs. 

Sources say Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot will not take any step now. The MLAs will stay in hotel Fairmont for 4 more days. Ashok Gehlot and MLAs supporting him held a meeting at Fairmont Hotel on Tuesday. 

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. On Tuesday, hearing resumed at 10:30 am.

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.

Counsel for the speaker Abhishek Singhvi on Monday argued that the petition was premature as a decision was yet to be taken on disqualifying the MLAs from the House. There is no scope for interference by a court over the show-cause notices issued by the speaker, he had said. The speaker is supreme as far as the legislative assembly is concerned and the notices have been issued within the purview of the speaker's power, Singhvi had said.

A lawyer appearing for the speaker had told reporters that the chief justice asked is the speaker bound to issue a notice on a petition seeking disqualification of such a nature without recording any reason. Singhvi had argued that there was no requirement to record reasons as it was merely a show-cause notice. The notices to the MLAs were served after the party complained to the speaker that the lawmakers had defied a whip to attend two CLP meetings last week on Monday and Tuesday.

The Pilot camp, however, argues that a party whip applies only when the assembly is in session.

In its complaint to the speaker, the Congress had sought action against Pilot and the other dissidents under paragraph 2(1)(a) of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution. The provision disqualifies MLAs if they "voluntarily" give up the membership of the party that they represent in the House. Pilot was sacked as the Rajasthan deputy chief minister and the president of the state Congress unit after he rebelled against Gehlot.

Ashok Gehlot chairs meet at Fairmont Hotel with MLAs supporting him. Sources say discussions taking place on urgent assembly session. As per spurces, Gehlot had met the Governor and submitted him the list of  MLAs as well as requested for an assembly session.

Suspended Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha on Tuesday lashed out at Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot for his remark on Deputy CM Sachin Pilot. Taking to Twitter, he said that Gehlot's remark is 'crude, coarse and cheap.' Terming his (Gehlot) statement as 'repugnant', Jha said that there is a new political culture of 'vulgar vicious trolling' in the Congress, adding that it is not the same party that he had joined.

Sacked Congress MLA Vishwendra Singh on Tuesday alleged that Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot is misusing power by using ATS, SOG to threaten the MLAs. Taking to Twitter, Singh said that it is unfortunate to see that Gehlot is threatening his own MLAs and their family members. He has said that he hopes Congress party will not tolerate this. Stating that fake case has been registered against his colleague Bhanwarlal Sharma, Singh added that Gehlot is taking revenge as they have exposed his wrongdoings. 

Reacting to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's remarks on his deputy Sachin Pilot, BJP president of the state, Satish Poonia said that it manifests the weakness of Gehlot government. Condemning his choice of words, Poonia said that Chief Minister Gehlot and his government is "morally weak" and therefore he is using such words for members of his own party.

He also said that the people of Rajasthan are suffering while there is a deadlock in the government. Terming the situation as an 'indirect emergency', Poonia referred to the alleged phone tapping in the state. Taking to Twitter, Poonia also added that the reputation for the post of the CM is deteriorated after Gehlot's statement. “It is unfortunate the chief minister is using this kind of language. It is their infighting but they are blaming BJP for it,” he added.

Rajasthan govt revokes all previous general consents to transfer cases to CBI. As per the notification, consent will be given on a case-to-case basis to the CBI , but previous approvals given for specific cases remains valid. This move comes in wake of growing clamor to transfer the cases registered for alleged horsetrading by Rajasthan SOG which has issued notice to a central minister.

After Pilot camp's argument that 'Intra Party disputes cannot be a ground for starting disqualification proceedings', the Court will hear Mukul Rohatgi tomorrow. The Court will start proceedings tomorrow at 10:30 AM.

While the Rajasthan Speaker agreed  to deferring the decision till Wednesday provided that the MLAs file their responses before the speaker by tomorrow, Sachin Pilot camp MLAs have declined the offer. They say that they want the HC to decide on the issue and have refused to file their responses before the Speaker.

Hitting out at CM Gehlot's 'ineffective and useless' comment, former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, on Monday, said that such baseless allegations were done solely to malign him. Claiming that there were attempts to stifle his legitimate concerns against the party leadership, he said that he will take strictest possible action against such an MLA - referring to CM Ashok Gehlot. Currently, Pilot and 18 MLAs have challenged the Speaker's disqualification notice against them at the Rajasthan High Court.

He stated:

I am saddened but not surprised to be at the receiving end of such baseless and vexatious allegations being leveled against me. This is done solely to malign me and to stifle the legitimate concerns that I had raised against the party leadership of the state, as a member and MLA of INC. This attempt further aims at defaming me and attack my credibility.

He added," The narrative is being redirected to avoid addressing the main issue. I will be taking appropriate and strictest possible legal action against the MLA who was made to make these accusations. I am sure more such concocted allegations will be thrown at me to cause aspersions on my public image. But I shall be unfettered and remain firm in my beliefs and convictions".

BJP National Vice President Om Mathur met party president JP Nadda at the party headquarters in Delhi today. Among other issues, they also discussed the political situation in Rajasthan: Sources

Harish Salve commences his arguments and when asked about the 3 applications filed this morning, he comments, "More the merrier, my lords".  Harish Salve requested time tomorrow as he is appearing pro-Bono for an Indian before Court of Appeals in London. The Court will recommence to hear Harish Salve at 5 PM this evening.

Congress whip argues that while Pilot camp MLAs are yet to issue a formal resignation but their conduct has been considered to be voluntarily giving up the party membership. He argued that validity of the proceedings before the speaker cannot be brought into question before a court of law.

CJ says that a whip can be issued only with respect to the assembly session and not for party meetings. Counsel says that the MLAs have been making statements against the government

Lashing out at his former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, on Monday claimed Pilot was 'useless and ineffective' for the Congress party as all knew that he did no work, while addressing the media in Jaipur. Stating that inspite of the fact that Pilot was made Rajasthan chief for 7 years, Deputy CM, Union Minister at a very young age, Gehlot claimed that Pilot was conspiring with BJP for the past 6 months. Terming Pilot as 'useless', he claimed that Pilot spoke well due to which he was respected.

" Pilot was the Chief of Rajasthan for 7 years. Rahul and Sonia Gandhi trusted him a lot for 7 years. Congress made him deputy CM, PCC chief, Union minister and MP at a very young age, but he conspired along with BJP for the last 6 months," he said adding, "He (Pilot) used to speak Hindi, English well and he impressed media. We knew that he was useless and ineffective, yet we respected him."

Taking a jibe at Pilot's supporting MLAs, Gehlot asked that while the hotel expense of the Congress MLAs holed up in Jaipur will be borne by Congress, who would bear the expenses for Pilot's rebel MLAs. Gehlot also indirectly attacked the Centre commenting on Pilot's lawyers - Harish Salve and Mukul Rohatgi saying, "Everyone knows whose lawyer Salve is, who is paying their fees. All corporate money is being used to make Modiji happy".

Counsel for Congress whip says the action of rebel MLAs showed that they have given up their party membership. How can you juxtapose suspension with disqualification from the assembly, asks Cheif Justice. They are yet to issue a formal resignation but their conduct has been considered to be voluntarily giving up the party membership, argues Counsel for Congress whip.

As Rajasthan continues to witness a power struggle, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his MLAs have been enjoying their stay at luxury resort Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur, in a bid to save their government. In the latest video which emerged from the resort, the MLAs were seen singing 'Hum Honge Kamyaab', snacking and sitting close to each other, violating social distancing norms along with Ashok Gehlot, who had pulled down the mask from his face. All other MLAs had either pulled down their masks or were seen without one.  

Singhvi argues Pilot is trying to be 'over clever' with the petition, says not attending legislative party meetings may amount to giving up membership in the party, adds MLAs have 7 days to respond to notice. "Question is whether a reasonable opportunity was given to the MLAs to respond to the notice. Not the number of days provided to them to respond," says Singhvi. 

In the Kihoto Holahan Judgment it is clearly said that the orders of the Supreme Court of Supreme Court in the High Court cannot be challenged, says Singhvi. The idea of ​​expression does not mean the freedom to do anything. The decisions of the Supreme Court cannot be reopened in the High Court, he says. 

The Rajasthan Police SOG on Monday gave notice to Gajendra Singh Shekhawat over the audiotape scandal, calling him for further investigation. Sources say his voice sample could be taken.

The state's SOG had earlier filed an FIR- naming rebel MLA Bhanwar Lal Sharma, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Sanjay Jain. 

The Rajasthan High Court on Monday resumed hearing the petition filed by Pilot and his rebel MLAs challenging the disqualification notices to them by the speaker. Congress leader and senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi begins arguments on behalf of the Rajasthan speaker. Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice Prakash Gupta are hearing the matter

Singhvi says that the scope for judicial review is very narrow and the petition filed by the Pilot camp does not fall under the ambit of judicial review. He also says Pilot's petition is 'premature'. 

Rajasthan SOG is reportedly looking out for Pilot Camp MLAs in Palwal area of Haryana. Sources report that SOG teams at the area under SP Vikas Sharma are searching for the MLAs

Sources report that Congress' Navalgarh Congress MLA - Raj Kumar Sharma fell ill and was tested for Coronavirus in Fairmont hotel. His result has come out as negative, report sources. 104 MLAs are reportedly holed in in the Jaipur Hotel as the political crisis continues.

MHA jumped into this matter as their political leaders told them they may get trapped as SOG #Rajasthan has evidence&audio clip is authentic. Nation knows CM's honesty. He had said if audio is proven to be false, he'll retire from politics. 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: Pratap Khachariyawas, Rajasthan Minister 

A day after the Ministry of Home Affairs stepped-in to inquire about the alleged phone tapping in Rajasthan, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi has said that these steps are being taken to 'thwart truth'. This comes after Congress released audiotapes alleging that BJP leaders are conspiring to topple the Ashok Gehlot government while maintaining silence about the origin of the tapes. Singhvi said that even as police inquiry is going on, BJP has 'conveniently' demanded CBI probe, after which the MHA has stepped in. Singhvi is representing the Congress CLP in Sachin Pilot's plea in the Rajasthan HC against the speaker's disqualification notice to him.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Saturday evening called on Governor Kalraj Mishra, amid a brewing political crisis in the Congress-ruled state. The meeting lasted for about 45 minutes. A Raj Bhavan spokesperson said it was a courtesy meeting during which the Chief Minister briefed the Governor about the efforts being taken to protect the state from the Coronavirus pandemic.

However, Republic TV sources on Sunday said that meeting the Governor is a part of Ashok Gehlot's new strategy to pressurise the MLAs in the Sachin Pilot camp. Sources said that Ashok Gehlot is now planning to call an Assembly session so that he can order the MLAs to attend the session by issuing the whip. If the MLAs, especially in the Pilot camp defy it, they can lose their membership and in such a situation, Ashok Gehlot can prove his majority.

Even as the political mess in Rajasthan gets murkier after Home Ministry demands a report on alleged phone tapping and Vasundhara Raje distancing herself from alleged talks with Ashok Gehlot, MLAs holed up in Jaipur's Fairmont hotel were spotted watching Aamir Khan-starrer Lagaan. This comes a day after a video accessed by Republic TV showed that MLAs were attending cooking classes and watching Mughal-e-Azam.  Earlier, videos have shown that MLAs in Manesar are performing Yoga and relaxing at the hotel's lawn. 

As the Rajasthan crisis unfolds, State Police has formed a special team of officers to investigate and arrest the accused in the case registered with the special operations group (SOG) in connection with audiotapes that revealed a conspiracy to topple the Ashok Gehlot-led state government.

As per reports, the eight-member team is headed by SP CID (Crime branch) Vikas Sharma. Other members of the team are Dharmendra Yadav (Additional SP-ATS), Jagdish Vyas (Additional SP-CID CB), Kamal Singh (assistant police commissioner-Jodhpur), Manish Sharma (Deputy SP- ATS), Kailash Jindal (inspector- CID CB), Suman Kaviya (Inspector- ATS) and Ramesh Pareek (inspector-ATS). The team was formed by Additional Director General (ATS and SOG) Ashok Rathore.

After formally receiving the support of 2 BTP MLAs, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, on Saturday, called upon Governor Kalraj Mishra at Raj Bhavan. While Gehlot maintains it was a customary visit, sources report that Gehlot has submitted a list of MLAs supporting his government - including Congress, BTP and Independent. Gehlot has reportedly also briefed the governor on the efforts being made for the prevention of Coronavirus in the state, in the 45-minute long meeting.

BJP LOP Gulab Chand Kataria says:

• Fight within Congress party has resulted what the situation in Rajasthan today. All that has exploded, and you are blaming BJP?
• The case of recording which has come to light is not valid in any way by any authorized agency
• Congress should conduct a floor test on its own if it has a majority. Prove your majority and run the govt
• BJP should not be blamed for the internal fighting of Congress

A Jaipur sessions court sends Sanjay Jain to four-day remand of Special Operations Group (SOG) team of Rajasthan Police. Accused in the matter Ashok Singh and Bharat Malani refuse to give their voice samples for further investigation

Sources report that Rajasthan SOG have presented the audio clip which allegedly features businessman Sanjay Jain talking to MLAs about money transaction to a sessions court in Rajasthan. Jain  has been arrested by SOG and charged with conspiracy and sedition.

Former CM Vasundhara Raje breaks her silence amid political turmoil, lashes at Congress for alleging BJP of horse-trading. She reminds that the government must remember it is between a pandemic, locust attack and women safet is at its lowest.  

I challenge BJP to free the 19 MLAs, they will return to Congress. The MLAs know that if people see them as 'sell-outs', they will not be able to face the public: Raghu Sharma, Rajasthan Minister & Congress leader

Taking a jibe at Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, sacked MLA Vishvendra Singh on Saturday took to Twitter and said that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi also spoke good English. He has also said that even Rajiv Gandhi was 'handsome'.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra demanded a CBI inquiry on the phone taping after Congress released an audiotape alleging horse-trading attempts by the former. Patra asked the Ashok Gehlot government if orders were passed to tap the phones of all leaders in Rajasthan and are still going on? Demanding an inquiry amid the political chaos in the state, Patra distanced the BJP from the horse-trading charges and said that Congress has to answer as their CM and Deputy CM was not speaking to each other since a year. 

 

Demanding President's rule in Rajasthan, BSP supremo Mayawati on Saturday has said that the Governor should take cognizance of the ongoing political deadlock in the state. Slamming CM Ashok Gehlot for violating the democratic principles, Mayawati has alleged that Gehlot had repeatedly violated the anti-defection law in the past and lured other Party's MLAs into Congress. In line with the BJP charge on phone tapping by the Gehlot government, Mayawati said that now the Rajasthan CM is indulging in another illegal activity. Earlier in the day, BJP demanded a CBI probe and asked Congress government in the state of phones of all political leaders are being tapped illegally in the state. 

Amid Rajasthan political mess, people of the state are suffering due to Coronavirus outbreak and locust attack. However, the state ministers and MLAs are holed up in various hotels and are divided among two camps - Ashok Gehlot's camp and Sachin Pilot's camp. A video accessed by Republic TV shows that MLAs holed up in Jaipur attend cooking classes and watch movies.  Earlier, videos have shown that MLAs in Manesar are performing Yoga and relaxing at the hotel's lawn. 

Deputy Leader of Opposition Rajasthan State Assembly BJP's Rajendra Rathore taunts Congress party, claims that audio tape about horse-trading is fake.

Sachin Pilot's statement about Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot being busy helping former chief minister Vasundhara Raje keep her official bungalow instead of fulfilling promises made in the election manifesto reflects his frustration, two BJP MLAs said on Thursday.

In a statement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs Kailash Maghwal and Pratap Singhvi highlighted that Raje had served as the chief minister of the state twice, was a five-time legislator and also the leader of the opposition. Pilot, the former Rajasthan deputy chief minister had in an interview said that Gehlot was busy ensuring that Raje does not have to vacate her government bungalow.

Sanjay Bardia alias Sanjay Jain has been arrested by SOG under sections 124A and 120B of the Indian Penal Code, report sources. Jain was allegedly taken into custody last night after he was featured in the alleged 'leaked tapes'.

After issuing notice to the 18 rebel MLAs, the Rajasthan SoG have left the Manesar Hotel

In a dramatic development, the Rajasthan SOG on Friday has reached outside ITC Manesar Hotel in Haryana to issue a notice to the rebel MLAs supporting Sachin Pilot. Visuals show a heavy deployment of police forces outside the hotel, as the SOG officials inform the Haryana police about the issue. The team which was initially stalled, has now been allowed inside the hotel by Haryana police as 18 Rajasthan MLAs remain holed in the hotel since Saturday night. Congress has questioned why Pilot chose to lock his MLAs in BJP-ruled Haryana. 

Lashing out at Congress' horse-trading allegations, Rajasthan BJP chief Dr. Satish Poonia, on Friday, asked the whereabouts and authenticity of the 'leaked tapes', at a Jaipur press briefing. Reiterating Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat's denial, he said that such allegations were done to defame the BJP. Moreover, he said that BJP will consult and decide on filing a defamation suit against Congress. The BJP press briefing was attended by Dr. Satish Poonia, Leader of Opposition - Gulab Chandra Kataria and Rajendra Rathore.

"It is laughable that he revealed the tapes of his own party member and BJP minister Gajendra Shekhawat. How did he get these tapes? Are they authentic? Were they investigated? Is Surjewala DG of SOG?," he said.

He added, "It is established that in the context of the Rajya Sabha election, these conversations were referred to.  Is this possible that talks between 2 people will be out like this? Gajendra has himself said that he has nothing to do with this. Sanjay Jain does not belong to BJP, he was a Congressman before. I think he was planted only to defame the BJP and I condemn the allegations against Gajendra".

Taking a jibe at Gehlot's remark that 'he had not spoken to Pilot in 1.5 years', Poonia said that how was this connected to BJP. Slamming Gehlot, he said that Gehlot was disturbed and was desperate to save his chair. The Congress has alleged that BJP has been 'luring MLAs' by offering Rs 25 crores each.

"It is surprising that CM and Dy CM are not in touch for one year. what has BJP to do with this? This reminds of emergency and Gehlot was himself a part of it.  One thing is clear, Gehlot is unstable and disturbed to save his chair. We will consult and then take action for a defamation suit," he said.

The hearing is adjourned to Monday 10 AM. Speaker assured the court that no action will be taken against the MLAs till 5:30 pm on Tuesday

Senior advocates Harish salve and Mukul Rohatgi have concluded their arguments from the side of the pilot camp 

Now Abhishek Manu Singhvi arguing for the speaker on behalf of the speaker. Abhishek Manu Singhvi pleads to dismiss the plea as it is premature. 

Harish Salve representing Pilot & his supporters argued that acts outside the House do not fall under the ambit of the tenth schedule. Moreover, he argued that raising disagreements regarding "dictatorial functioning" of CM is an internal matter and doesn't amount to defection. Salve also added that filing of FIRs  accusing the Deputy CM and MLAs of sedition is an arm twisting tactic. Harish Salve arguing for Sachin Pilot and his MLAs states that the speaker’s notice for disqualification ought to be stayed 

In response, the party's whip has asked for 3 days time to respond to the petition by Pilot and his MLAs, report sources. 

Harish Salve representing Pilot & his supporters argued that acts outside the House do not fall under the ambit of the tenth schedule. Moreover, he argued that raising disagreements regarding "dictatorial functioning" of CM is an internal matter and doesn't amount to defection. Salve also added that filing of FIRs  accusing the Deputy CM and MLAs of sedition is an arm twisting tactic.

In response, the party's whip has asked for 3 days time to respond to the petition by Pilot and his MLAs, report sources. The hearing has been paused for a break.

After the Congress on Friday demanded that a case be lodged against BJP leader and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, accusing him of being involved in horse-trading of Rajasthan MLAs, the minister has responded. Speaking to Republic TV, Shekhawat refuted the allegations and said that he is ready for any probe into the matter.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala in a news conference said, "Yesterday, shocking tapes were aired by the media in which Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, BJP leader Sanjay Jain and Congress MLA Bhanwar Lal Sharma spoke about bribing MLAs and bringing down Rajasthan government."

Shekhawat said, "I am ready to face any investigation. The audio doesn't have my voice and that is fake audio." The Minister also said that he does not know about any Sanjay Jain whose name has also been mentioned in the audiotape.

The Congress on Friday demanded that a case be lodged against BJP leader and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, accusing him of being involved in horse-trading of Rajasthan MLAs. The party also suspended rebel MLAs Bhanwarlal Sharma and Vishvendra Singh from the party for allegedly being involved in the conspiracy to topple the government.

AICC spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that two audio recordings have surfaced in which the MLA Sharma, Union Minister Shekhawat and a BJP leader Sanjay Jain are purportedly talking about the "conspiracy" to topple the government. He demanded an FIR against the three and their arrest. 

Surjewala said chief whip Mahesh Joshi has given a complaint to the Special Operation Group for registration of FIR in the matter. Sharma has, however, denied the allegations. When the audiotapes surfaced on Thursday, he had termed them as fake and said the voice in it was not his. 

The petition first filed before the Rajasthan High Court was taken up by a single judge bench to adjudicate upon the validity of the show-cause notices issued to the Members of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. While the members of the Assembly had been served with a disqualification notice, the procedure for disqualification was yet to be completed and no final decision was said to have been taken by the Rajasthan Speaker. 

In light of this, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for the Speaker before the High Court, objected to the maintainability of the petition stating that the procedure could not be challenged before a court of law, instead, only the final decision of the Speaker could be questioned. It was then that Harish Salve expressed his desire to challenge the procedure of disqualification itself under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India and sought to amend his petition to include the grounds for the same.

Section 2(1)(a) of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution gives the power to the Speaker to disqualify any Member of the House who had voluntarily given up the membership of his political party under which he was elected. It was under this provision that the show-cause notice was issued to the MLAs. Soon after the 3 pm hearing, an amended petition was filed before the Rajasthan High Court challenging the validity and constitutionality of Section 2(1)(a) of the Tenth Schedule which has now turned this case into a constitutional question of law.

As per sources, an individual named Sanjay Jain alias Sanjay Baradia has been arrested by the Rajasthan SOG after alleged calls made by MLAs were leaked. Jain was reportedly in talks with an MLA and was arrested on that basis.

2-judge bench defers hearing on Sachin Pilot's plea challenging disqualification of 19 MLAs, to 5 PM on Friday. Speaker has assured the court that no action will be taken against the dissenting MLAs till 5 pm tomorrow

Hearing of Sachin Pilot and 18 MLAs' plea in Rajasthan HC at 7:30 pm by 2-judge bench of Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanti and Justice Prakash Gupta

Justice Satish Chandra Sharma has referred the plea to a 2-judge bench which will be constituted by Rajasthan HC's Chief Justice.

Hearing at Rajasthan HC begins between Sachin Pilot camp and Speaker.

Sources report that all 18 MLAs from Sachin Pilot's camp have been shifted from ITC Hotel to Best Western resort in Manesar

As the hearing on the 19 MLAs' plea cahllenging the disqualification notice issued by Rajasthan Speaker began, ex-Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, represented by senior counsel Harish Salve  has asked for the matter to be adjourned so that the could file an amended petition, report sources. Rajasthan High Court which is hearing the issue has adjourned the case now.

In a massive development on Thursday, Sachin Pilot has moved Rajasthan High Court to challenge the issuance of disqualification notice by the assembly Speaker, as well as the validity of the whip issued by the Congress legislative party (CLP). As per sources, Todabhim MLA Prithviraj Chauhan has filed the petition on behalf of Sachin Pilot camp. In the plea, the Pilot camp has challenged the Speaker’s notice on the grounds that it is arbitrary.

Moreover, the plea states that the assembly was not in session when the notice of disqualification was issued and therefore, it cannot be enforced. Thus, the plea demands for setting aside of the disqualification notices and claims that there is no basis to allege 'anti-party activity.' The Pilot camp has also stated that not enough time was given to respond to the notice, as per sources. The decision to move High Court was taken after Sachin Pilot held a meeting with his faction of MLAs at their Haryana hotels through video conferencing. The assembly Speaker had on Wednesday, July 15, issued a disqualification notice to Sachin Pilot and other MLAs. 

Moreover, sources have informed that former Attorney General Mukul Rohtagi and Advocate Harish Salve may represent Sachin Pilot before Rajasthan HC and CLP will be represented by Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The plea will be heard by a single-judge bench headed by Judge Satish Chandra Sharma at 3 PM. Divyesh Maheswari has filed the petition on behalf of Todabhim MLA Prithviraj Chauhan, as per details.

Petition challenges the validity of the whip issued by the CLP. The plea says that the assembly was not in session when the notice was issued and therefore it cannot be enforced and that no basis for issuance of notice for anti-party activities. Further, the plea asks for setting aside of the disqualification notices

In a recent development, Sachin Pilot has moved to the Rajasthan High Court to challenge his disqualification notice, according to sources. 

After his suspension from the party, Sanjay Jha has asked Balasaheb Thorat about internal democracy in the party as he was not given any show-cause notice tp explain his stance on alleged 'anti-party activities.' 

A day after Sachin Pilot said that he will not join the BJP, senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal has questioned the holing up of MLAs in Haryana's Manesar, stating that it is a BJP-ruled state.

As Rajasthan political crisis seems to be a long-drawn battle, with Ashok Gehlot camp and Congress leadership blaming BJP and Sachin Pilot tight-lipped about his plans, BJP's Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has mocked the Congress government in the state.

Rajasthan Congress MLAs lodged at Fairmont Hotel, Jaipur celebrate the birthday of Congress MLA Vijaypal Mirdha. 

Taking to Twitter, PIlot camp MLAs - Mukesh Bhakar and Vishvendra Singh Bharatpur expressed pride in their defiance. 

(How far can conflict be raised, how far war can be avoided.  You are also a descendant of Teja, throw as far as the spear goes)

(The youngest MLA, regardless of political future, rebelled against oppression and tyranny.  Blessed are the lands of Nagaur and their mothers who gave birth to these heroes. @RamniwasGawriya @MukeshBhakar)

Rebutting Gehlot's claims of horse-trading, former Cabinet minister Ramesh Meena said that the CM had not paid heed to the demands placed by them and run the state autocratically. He added, "Reveal how much money was offered to us to join Congress when we were in BSP? We were cheated saying that we will see development - which did not happen, inspite of us working honestly."

In a massive development, sources report on Wednesday, 4 of the 18 rebel Congress MLAs may want to go back to Congress folds, withdrawing their support to Rajasthan ex-Deputy CM Sachin Pilot. Sources add that Pilot, who is currently visiting the Manesar Hotel where the MLAs are holed up, is trying to placate his supporters. Moreover, 6 BJP MLAs have reportedly informed that they will not join the BJP.

Addressing the media, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, "We saw Pilot's statement of not joining BJP.  We would like to say to Pilot that if they don't want to join BJP then stop taking hospitality of BJP govt in Haryana. Stop communicating with BJP leaders and like a family member, come back to Congress."

He added, "Stop speaking to media. Come back to the family and speak with us and place your views with us.  This will be the biggest testimony of your belief and trust with us."

After refusing claims of joing BJP, Rajasthan's ex-deputy CM Sachin Pilot is currently visiting the 18 rebel MLAs holed up at Manesar Hotel in Gurugram, as per sources.

Gehlot: 'Congress was soft on Pilot'

Reiterating BJP's involvement in horsetrading, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday, insisted that the Congress was 'soft' on rebel Congress leader Sachin Pilot and 18 MLAs supporting him, while addressing reporters in Jaipur. Furthermore, Gehlot refuted allegations of 'Congress not supporting youngsters' saying that he, Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi always believed that the future belonged to the youth. Accusing Pilot and his MLAs of horse-trading, Gehlot said just because Pilot had a refined personality, he could not 'stab' Gehlot.

"We -  Myself, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi love the new generation - tomorrow is theirs only. But what will happen if the younger generation itself takes part in horse-trading? Just speaking good English and having a good personality is not everything - Gold knives are not meant to be stabbed with," he said.

Gehlot: 'BJP killing democracy'

Slamming the BJP for undermining democracy, he alleged that MLAs were offered Rs 20 crores to switch from Congress to BJP, adding that Pilot's rebellion amounted to defection. Moreover, he said that the current situation of holing up MLAs at Delhi by Pilot would have happened during the Rajya Sabha polls itself, if the Congress did not lock up their MLAs in hotels for 20 days. He added that   

"We were soft on him; had we been strict such a situation would not have arisen. Our few friends got trapped in BJP and went to become over-ambitious by attempting horsetrading. What he did amount for defection by lobbying with BJP for a money deal. Agents were offering Rs 20 crores to our MLAs, but they denied. We have proof," he said adding, " During Rajya Sabha polls Manesar (resort politics) was going to happen, so we had to keep our MLAs inside for 20 days! We don't get pleasure in doing this".

Vishvendra Singh, who was sacked by the Congress on Tuesday from the Rajasthan Cabinet along with Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and Ramesh Meena, speaking to Republic TV alleged that several MLAs lodged in Jaipur's Fairmont hotel are held hostage by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. He said that their mobile phones have been taken but exuded confidence saying that they will soon join Sachin Pilot.

Even as Sachin Pilot has on Wednesday said that he will not join the BJP and is yet to unveil his plans, Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande has said that the 'door of Congress party' is not yet shut for him. Taking to Twitter, Pande said that he prays to God to give Sachin Pilot wisdom so that he can identify the 'trap of BJP'. The Congress in-charge went on to say that Pilot should admit his mistake. 

Meanwhile, Congress party has put notices outside the residence of all Congress leaders who skipped Tuesday's legislative meet of the party and given them time to respond within two days. Elaborating on the same, Pande said that Pilot and 18 other party members will have to respond to the notice within 2 days, and if they fail to do so, "it will be considered that they are withdrawing their membership from CLP," Pande explained. Rajasthan assembly speaker is also ready to serve disqualification notices to the MLAs, sources said.

BJP is holding a meeting on the current political crisis in Rajasthan. This comes after Sachin Pilot said he won't join BJP. 

 BJP's Satish Punia, Gulabchand Kataria, Rajendra Rathore, Arun Chaturvedi and others are present.

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

Sacked Congress MLA Ramesh Meena on Wednesday said that he worked with honesty as a minister and his department led in performance, adding that there was no point for the party to sack him. As Congress party sacked Sachin Pilot on Tuesday, it also removed Meena, Vishvendra Singh and two others from the cabinet and party posts. While all the leaders have expressed their differences with Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, the leaders maintain that they worked hard and ensured assembly election victory in the state under the leadership of Pilot. 

Prime Minister appreciated our work: Sacked Congress MLA Ramesh Meena

"Our department was top in performance. Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan and the Prime Minister appreciated that. I worked with honesty and the result is that I am sacked. What irregularity did I do," he said in a video message.

A day after being sacked from the post of Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister and Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chief, Sachin Pilot on Wednesday said that he is not joining BJP or any other party, adding that he has been a loyalist of the Congress. The 'rebel' leader said that he won't remain silent anymore and is considering legal options to fight CM Gehlot whom he has accused of "doing wrong things & maligning his image"

'Only spoke to Priyanka Vadra Gandhi'

"I am not joining BJP or any other party, I have been a loyalist of the Congress. Except for Priyanka Ji, I have not spoken to anyone else. Whatever Gehlot is doing with me is wrong and wants to malign my image. Ever since Rahul Gandhi resigned as party president, I have been a victim of wrongdoings and I remained silent but not anymore. We are looking at the legal options moving ahead and this is a fight for Rajasthan and its people," Sachin Pilot said.

Sources on Wednesday said that Sachin Pilot's presser has been postponed and now he will address at 1PM instead of 10 AM. This is his first presser after Congress sacked him on Tuesday. It is still unclear what are Pilot's plans as sources said that BJP is not in hurry to induct Pilot even as he met Scindia earlier. 

Ahead of Sachin Pilot's press conference at 10 AM, Madhya Pradesh Congress has taken a dig at Pilot and Jyotiraditya Scindia. 

Sources on Wednesday morning said that Rajasthan assembly speaker is all set to issue disqualification notices for Sachin Pilot and all the other MLAs, after ruling Congress sacked them.

Sources revealed that security has been beefed up at the residence of RLD MLA and state Minister Subhash Garg and MLA Joginder Awana. Senior officials are keeping a close eye on the whole situation. This comes in the wake of Tourism Minister Vishvendra Singh Bharatpur switching to the Sachin Pilot camp.

As per sources, the Congress party in Rajasthan would take a call on Cabinet expansion only after Sachin Pilot's briefing on July 15.

The state cabinet and Council of Ministers meetings at the residence of Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot have now concluded.

Congress has suspended its ex-spokesperson Sanjay Jha from Congress with immediate effect for alleged "anti-party activities" and "breach of discipline". This assumes significance as Jha has openly supported Sachin Pilot who was sacked as the Deputy CM and PCC chief. Earlier in the day, Jha urged the party to replace Ashok Gehlot with Pilot as the CM to solve the Rajasthan conundrum. According to him, Pilot deserved to be the CM because of his "spectacular single-handed comeback" in 2018.

BJP will hold an important meeting in Jaipur on July 15 over the current political situation in the state. The meeting to begin after the arrival of senior leader Vasundhara Raje. She is currently in Dholpur. 

In an important development, the Congress party has issued showcause notice to the MLAs who were absent at the Legislative Party meeting. The chief whip Mahesh Joshi has been informed about this. The absentee legislators will have to personally give an explanation for violating the party whip. If the reply of the MLA is found unsatisfactory, his membership of the legislature can be cancelled. As per sources, Congress has also commenced the search for candidates in a bypoll scenario. 

After being sacked as a Minister, Congress MLA Vishvendra Singh Bharatpur questioned the basis on which he was removed. Contending that he did not make any anti-party statement, Bharatpur revealed that the intention was to draw the high command's attention to the promises in the Congress manifesto not being fulfilled. He is a key member of the Sachin Pilot camp.

An important meeting is currently underway at the BJP office in Jaipur. BJP RS MP Om Mathur is chairing the meeting with other party leaders. 

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot congratulated Govind Singh Dotasara, Ganesh Ghogra, Abhishek Choudhary and Hem Singh Shekhawat for being newly appointed as the president of the Pradesh Congress Committee, Youth Congress, NSUI and Seva Dal respectively. These appointments were announced after Sachin Pilot was sacked as Deputy CM and PCC chief. Gehlot exuded confidence in the new appointees would strengthen the party organization under the leadership of Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi. 

State ministers along with Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot left the Fairmont Hotel for the latter's residence. The Cabinet meeting is scheduled to commence at the CM's residence from 7.30 pm. 

Sachin Pilot expressed his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all those who came out in his support after being sacked as Deputy CM and PCC president.

Commenting on the sacking of Sachin Pilot, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale predicted that this would lead to the fall of the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government in Rajasthan. Moreover, he added that the Maharashtra government was also in danger in the coming months. 

59 office bearers of Tonk unit of Congress party in Rajasthan tendered their resignations in protest against the removal of Sachin Pilot as the Deputy CM and Rajasthan PCC Chief.

Speaking to the media on the Rajasthan political crisis, Congress-turned-BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia opined that there is no place for ability in the Congress party in the present circumstances. According to him, this was the situation in every state. 

Congress district president of Pali, Chunnilal Chadwas, resigned from his post. He said that he was"hurt by the undemocratic removal of Sachin Pilot as state unit chief".

In a big development, former Congress MP Priya Dutt lamented that her party had lost two stalwart young leaders with great potential- Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot. In a clear sign of support for Pilot, she maintained that being ambitious is not wrong. Moreover, she added that both these leaders had worked hard for the party through the most difficult times. 

The state cabinet meeting shall be held at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence at 7.30 pm on Tuesday. This will be followed by a meeting of the Council of Ministers at 8 pm. 

Congress leader Sachin Pilot will hold a press briefing at 10 am tomorrow, according to sources. 

Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee senior vice president Gopal Singh Shekhawat announced his resignation from the post after Sachin Pilot was sacked as Deputy CM. 

Prayagraj MP Rita Bahuguna Joshi, a Congress-turned-BJP leader, invited Sachin Pilot to immediately join BJP. According to her, Pilot's sacking was another example of Rahul Gandhi's arrogance and lack of leadership. 

While expressing regret at the sequence of events in Rajasthan, senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid took a dig at Pilot for his personal ambition. According to him, such expectations were insignificant in the light of challenges faced by the Congress party.

Speaking to the media, BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition Gulab Chand Kataria has demanded a floor test in Rajasthan. Alleging that the state government is in minority, he accused the Congress party of luring MLAs with ministerial berths. 

Rajasthan NSUI president Abhimanyu Poonia has resigned from his post in an expression of solidarity with sacked Deputy CM Sachin Pilot.

Reacting to Sachin Pilot's sacking, Congress leader and former Union Minister Jitin Prasada recalled his vast contribution to the party. He expressed hope that the situation can be salvaged.

'Sachin Pilot wants to be Rajasthan Chief Minister': Sources

Sources said that Sachin Pilot is in talks with the BJP and wants to be the CM. After Scindia-Sachin meet, top leadership has been informed about Pilot's wishes. However, BJP has made it clear that it can make him DyCm with home ministry and Finance portfolios. Final modalities are being worked out. Sachin Pilot can be inducted in the party thereafter.

Sachin Pilot's Ouster Approved; Dausa Unit resigns

Subsequent to Ashok Gehlot meeting the Rajasthan Governor, the sacking of Sachin Pilot as Deputy Chief Minister has been ratified. Furthermore, the entire Congress unit from Pilot's stronghold Dausa has resigned. 

Following his sacking as Rajasthan's DyCM, Sachin Pilot made changes to his Twitter bio, removing the designation of  Deputy CM and President of Rajasthan Congress. Sachin Pilot's modified bio now reads -  MLA from Tonk, Former Minister for IT, Telecom and Corporate Affairs GOI and Commissioned Officer Territorial Army.     

Before

After

Former Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot broke his silence after being sacked from his position earlier on Tuesday. Taking to Twitter, Pilot tweeted that the truth could be tested or disturbed but couldn't be destroyed. 

In the second CLP meet on Tuesday, Congress party passed a resolution against Sachin Pilot and his loyalists after Pilot skipped the meeting even after an ultimatum. Issuing a press conference, Surjewala claimed that Pilot achieved a lot at a small age due to the goodwill of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, however, he is trapped by the attempts of BJP. He announced that Sachin Pilot, Vishvender Singh, and Ramesh Meena has been removed from their post in the Gehlot government

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

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot alleged the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) of conspiring to bring down the Congress govt in the state and said that he has warned his partymen to 'not fall for BJP's trap'.  Gehlot said that the decision to sack Sachin Pilot was made after holding a long discussion with the party and claimed that the young leader had no stake or power & that BJP was acting behind the scene. Further, the Rajasthan CM claimed that Pilo's faction surrendered in front of the BJP and thus the 'unhappy' Congress party decided to sack him. 

Moments after Congress party in its legislative meeting passed a resolution to remove Sachin Pilot and his loyalists, and concurrent with their subsequent decision to remove him from the Deputy CM's post along with two other loyalist Rajasthan ministers, Pilot's camp has released a statement.

We have for years worked with dedication, devotion, and service towards the party. And we are taking a stand to protect our dignity and self-respect at a time when our leader is threatened with notices from the SOG under the charges of sedition and criminal conspiracy. This is unprecedented in Indian democracy and the Congress party, for whom we have toiled with sweat and blood. Under the leadership of Shri Sachin Pilot, we have made every effort in the past 6 years to strengthen the party and bring it to power in Rajasthan at a time when it had been reduced to an insignificant number in the state assembly. Public humiliation of our leader Mr. Pilot is something that is totally unacceptable to us, and those responsible for meeting out this treatment need to be made accountable. We are seeking to restore our self-respect and are not clamoring for any posts and positions contrary to false reports in the media. We have been senior members of the party for many years and have held many positions within the party and government and are not lured by inducements.

SINGED/-

Vishvender singh
Cabinet minister

Ramesh Meena
Cabinet minister

Deepender Shekhawat
Former Speaker

CM Ashok Gehlot is meeting with the Governor at the Raj Bhavan. After the second CLP meet on Tuesday, Congress party passed a resolution against Sachin Pilot and his loyalists after Pilot skipped the meeting. Addressing a press conference, Cong spokesperson Surjewala announced that Pilot and two other cabinet ministers have been sacked from Rajasthan government. He claimed that Pilot achieved a lot at a small age due to the 'goodwill of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi,' however, he is trapped by the attempts of BJP.

In the second CLP meet on Tuesday, Congress party passed a resolution against Sachin Pilot and his loyalists after Pilot skipped the meeting even after an ultimatum. Issuing a press conference, Surjewala claimed that Pilot achieved a lot at a small age due to the goodwill of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, however, he is trapped by the attempts of BJP. He aannounced that Sachin Pilot, Vishvender Singh, and Ramesh Meena has been removed from their post in the Gehlot government

In the first CLP meet, the CLP in Rajasthan passed a resolution unanimously supporting the state government led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. The first resolution said that strict disciplinary action will be taken against any Congress MLA or office-bearer of the party directly or indirectly involved in anti-party activities.

After the Congress in its legislative party meet on Tuesday passed an anti-Sachin Pilot resolution, sources said that BJP will take a decision on meeting the Rajasthan speaker today. Sources added that BJP might call for a floor test. 

Senior Vice President of the RPCC Vishvendra Singh Bharatpur in a tweet on Tuesday has said that those who do not allow others to speak are saying that one should sort out differences in meetings. This is being seen as a taunt on the Gehlot government and repeated appeals by various senior Congress leaders to the Pilot camp to attend the CLP meeting.

As Sachin Pilot and his loyalists skip the CLP meeting on Tuesday, Congress has passed a resolution to take strict action against them for indulging in anti-party activities. Pilot and MLAs supporting him skipped the CLP meet on Tuesday despite as many as 29 calls made to him by various Congress leaders and an ultimatum by Party high-command. 

As the Congress legislative meet began on Tuesday, sources confirmed that Sachin Pilot has skipped the meeting despite receiving an ultimatum from the Congress high command. Congress general secretary in-charge for the state Avinash Pande had said that the party was giving 'a second chance' to Pilot adding that he expects all the MLAs to join in. However, Pilot's move to not attend the meet shows he is unmoved by Congress' offers and the Rajasthan chaos is a long-drawn battle 

Suggesting a solution to the ongoing crisis in Rajasthan, former Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha has batted for Sachin Pilot as Chief Minister and said that Ashok Gehlot must be given an organizational role. Taking to Twitter on Tuesday, he said that the conundrum in Rajasthan may be solved if Pilot becomes the CM and a new leader is appointed as the head of RPCC. This comes as Pilot skipped the second CLP meeting underway despite ultimatum by the Congress high-command, sources said.

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

As Congress government in Rajasthan under the leadership of Ashok Gehlot is hanging at the fence, senior leaders of the party have made as many as 29 calls to deputy CM and party's state chief Sachin Pilot in the last two days, sources said. Although frantic calls have been made, sources have informed that Pilot has held his grounds. While Congress general secretary Priyanka Vadra has dilled Pilot four times in the last two days, Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi has called him once and KC Venugopal has called him three times. Senior leader Ahmed Patel - whom Pilot met on Saturday night and submitted his grievances has made as many as fifteen calls to him. Moreover, P Chidambaram has also called Pilot six times in an attempt to resolve the ongoing Rajasthan crisis.

The Ashok Gehlot camp released a video in which state ministers Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, Raghu Sharma, Govind Singh Dotasra, along with MLAs Sanyam Lodha and Amin Kagzi - who attended the CLP meet on Monday - can be seen at Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur. MLAs can be seen doing Yoga. 

In an attempt to save Ashok Gehlot's Rajasthan government, the Congress party has called for another Legislative party meeting on Tuesday 10AM, and has issued an ultimatum to Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, sources said. While Congress general secretary Priyanka Vadra and Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi are attempting to placate Pilot, sources said that high-command has sent a message to him asking him to join Tuesday's CLP meet.

Moreover, party high command has warned him to not complain about any future action if he misses the CLP meeting, sources said. Congress party has urged him to raise the issue at the party forum, as per sources. A similar appeal was made to him by Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala on Monday after the CLP meeting was deferred.

Amid political chaos in Rajasthan and a power tussle within the Congress between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, sources have said that the Pilot camp would not attend the second Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meet on Tuesday. Sachin Pilot's office on Monday night also released a video in which MLAs supporting him are seen at a hotel in Haryana's Manesar. Rajasthan Congress MLAs Inder Raj Gurjar, PR Meena, GR Khatana, and Harish Meena among others are seen seated in the hotel's garden. 

Addressing a press conference, senior Congress leader Abhishek MAnu Singhvi said, "Sachin Pilot whom I consider one of the most talented, impressive and competent Congressmen we have in the party is a personal friend also. We all value him in the party. Certainly, he should come and air his grievances. The door is open. All people are willing to listen to him. And I would say that he will have certain genuine grievances- I have no doubt about it. But where I draw a red line is a moment where anybody, if you are to topple a government or to hurt your own party in the state."

He added, " I would urge Pilot to exercise this right. I have a problem that at the end of the day, if you are elected an MLA of Congress party, then there is only one path in morality, law, constitution, and 10th schedule. Please resign and then do what you like." 

Sachin pilot to not attend tomorrow's CLP meeting as well, report sources.

BTP pulls out support from the Ashok Gehlot Govt, report sources after issuing whip to abstain from voting

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

BTP has issued a whip to its 2 MLAs ordering them to not vote for Congress, nor BJP, nor Ashok Gehlot, nor Sachin Pilot in case there is a floor test called.  

In Jaipur, several Congress members supporting Pilot put up his posters which were removed from the party office raising Pilot Zindabad slogans.

I am with Sachin Pilot: Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Ramesh Meena to ANI

Commenting on the issue, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh claims, "BJP into destroying democratic fabric. Mandate is being sold and auctioned. What happened in MP, Arunachal, Goa, Manipur same is being done in Rajasthan. I dont think this is possible. Their efforts are going on.  Crores of rupees being spent. I am confident that Gehlot and Pilot will find out a way and work together".

He added, "Firstly, Congress gives a chance to everyone. When were chances not given to Scindia and Pilot? With chances, rules and discipline is to be followed simultaneously. If at all there are differences, it should be conveyed to Delhi".

Former Union Minister and BJP MP Rajyavardhan Rathore on Sunday said that the Congress party in Rajasthan had brought its infighting out into the open and the party has always been more concerned with its "Sarkar Bachao Karyakram" (Save the government scheme) rather than addressing the problems of the people. 

According to ANI, Rathore alleged that CM Gehlot led state government has betrayed people of Rajasthan. "Congress could have solved their differences within themselves but instead they have reduced Rajasthan's politics to trash. 'Inhone Rajasthan ki Rajneeti ko Kachra Bana dia'" Rathore said.

"People voted for them and they have betrayed them. They should have done something for the betterment of the people, but now they are fighting within themselves," he said.

While Congress claims 107 MLAs were present at the Congress CLP meet on Monday, sources have told Republic TV that only 84 Congress MLAs were present in the meeting which concluded at CM Gehlot's residence in Rajasthan. This reduces Congress' numbers in the Rajasthan Assembly from 107 to 84, putting it in a minority. While Deputy CM Sachin Pilot claims to have the support of 30 MLAs, BJP currently has 72 MLAs and 13 are independent MLAs in the 200-member assembly.

While Congress accuses BJP of 'horse-trading', BJP I-T Cell chief Amit Malviya, on Monday, asked Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot to call for a floor test immediately to prove his majority. He questioned that if Gehlot indeed had the support of 107 MLAs, why was he herding his MLAs to a resort. Claiming that fall of the Gehlot government was inevitable, Malviya alleged that GEhlot lacked the numbers.

Sources further report that former Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi has called miffed Pilot to meet him amid Rajasthan govt crisis. On Sunday, a scheduled meeting between Pilot and Gandhi was cancelled. 

The resolution passed by Congress at the CLP meeting backs the Rajasthan government led by Ashok Gehlot. Furthermore, it slams BJP's conspiracy to lures its MLAs and warns defectors of strict action.

Visuals show that all MLAs supporting Gehlot are being moved to Fairmount Hotel. Congress MLA Dr Subhash garg claims support of 115 MLAs to reporters, while leaving CM residence

In a massive development, sources report that top BJP leaders Gulab Chand Kataria, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are gearing to reach Jaipur on Monday as Gehlot government grapples to ascertain its majority. Sources add that Union Ministers - Arjun Singh Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary are keeping tabs on the situation unfolding in Jaipur. Pilot, who is claiming the support of 30 MLAs has allegedly met senior BJP leader Om Mathur and Bhupendra Yadav amid the crisis.

In a last ditch attempt, Congress General Secretary (UP East) Pryanka Gandhi Vadra has reached out Sachin Pilot in an attempt to bridge the rift between CM Gehlot and Dy CM Sachin Pilot, as per sources.

In a breaking development, sources informed that a vehicle has entered ITC Manesar where Congress MLAs supporting Sachin Pilot are camping. In the car, there were two leaders who were hiding their faces, sources added.

Sachin Pilot has spoken to Republic and clarified that he intends to fight it out

Breaking his silence on the ongoing political crisis in Rajasthan, Deputy Chief Minister & state Congress president Sachin Pilot said that not only are the MLAs with him, but they are also with the people of Rajasthan.

Speaking to Republic TV, Pilot said, "We are ready to fight, not only are the MLAs with me, they are with people of Rajasthan too. Whatever I will do will be for the people and the state and rest assured, we will continue to fight for the people of Rajasthan. I will make my intent clear soon. I have the support, you cannot keep MLAs against their will for a long time. It’s a long haul."

Addressing a news conference in Jaipur, senior Congress leader and spokesperson Randeep Surjewala on Monday said that he along with Ajay Maken and state in-charge Avinash Pandey spoke to party's MLAs regarding the political scenario in the state. Sent as a central observer by the party's high command along with Maken, Surjewala said the Congress leadership has also spoken to Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot "a number of times."

'We will work to resolve it together'

Surjewala said, "Over the last 48 hours, Congress leadership has spoken to Sachin Pilot a number of times about the present political situation." He also appealed to Pilot and all Congress MLAs saying that the people have voted for Congress to lead a stable government in the state, so "all the MLAs should take part in the Congress Legislative Party meeting today and make our government in the state stronger."

The Senior Congress leader added, "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 government intact in the state." Surjewala said that personal differences among the party should not pave the way to give an opportunity to the BJP to weaken the Congress party. He also appealed to the leader to keep their personal ambitions aside to avoid any damage to the democratically elected government.

Meanwhile, the numbers at Ashok Gehlot's CLP meeting in Jaipur emerged lesser than that which was witnessed at a meeting he held the previous night. Whereas there were 114 MLAs on Sunday night, only 103 have come to the CLP meeting, as per sources.

Amid the ongoing Income Tax raids, the Congress in a desperate measure has decided to Take all of its MLAs to Raj Bhawan directly to meet the Governor post the CLP meeting, sources informed. However, a final decision is awaited.

Sources say that Sharma received around Rs 96.7 crores from Mauritius and also has stakes in Hotel Fairmont. Sharma and Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav are business partners. ED had summoned him a few days ago and he is being questioned, sources said.

The Enforcement Directorate has maintained that there is no connection with the ongoing I-T searches at several places in the state. ED suspects that large scale overseas transactions have taken place.

Amid the looming uncertainty over the Congress government in Rajasthan, sources have said that Sachin Pilot will make things official himself by issuing a statement or issue a press note.

Amid the political crisis in Rajasthan, the Income Tax Department is conducting raids at the house of Rajiv Arora, owner of a jewellery firm and a close aide of CM Ashok Gehlot. The Income Tax team has also reached the house of Congress leader Dharmendra Rathore, also a close aide of Gehlot. Sources said both are managing finances of the Jaipur political crisis

According to sources, raids are going on at 18 places on a complaint of tax evasion. The Income Tax Department is conducting searches at several locations in Rajasthan, Delhi and Maharastra. Searches are going in Jaipur, Kota, Delhi and Mumbai as well.  

As the Rajasthan Congress issued a whip to its MLAs to be present at the CLP meeting at CM Gehlot's residence on Monday,  sources said that Pilot camp has rejected the whip by saying there is no legal validity of the whip because the Assembly is not in motion. They said it has been issued only to put pressure on Pilot loyalists.

Congress President 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.

Pandey said that he has tried to speak to Sachin Pilot have also sent messages to him but he has not 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'll turn up for the meeting," Avinash Pandey said.

With the all-important Congress Legislature meeting called by CM Ashok Gehlot to begin at 10:30 am in Jaipur, sources said that Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot who is in Delhi has met a top BJP leader. After it was reported that Pilot is likely to join BJP on Monday, the BJP has said that it is not in any rush for Pilot to join the party or topple the Congress government. 

Sources said that the Deputy Chief Minister has suggested the Governor route and wants a floor test to happen to challenge Gehlot in the floor of the house which in turn gives him and the BJP time of at least 8 to 10 days to gather more support and numbers. Meanwhile, the BJP has clearly indicated that it is Pilot's call and the BJP is officially not getting into the Pilot-Gehlot tussle till Sachin joins the BJP. The BJP has said that it would help and back him from the outside in the floor test.

Sources said that there are 17 MLAs physically present with Sachin Pilot in Delhi even as he has claimed that he has the support of 30+. More than 16 MLAs will join him post the 10:30 meeting. 

Congress will send all its MLAs (Gehlot's faction) to Hotel Fairmont in Jaipur, sources said.

Congress leader KC Venugopal will reach Jaipur, Rajasthan on Monday, according to ANI. Congress Legislature Party meeting which will be held in Jaipur is expected to begin at 10:30 am.

Sources on Monday said that Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot on Sunday before taking the decision of showing the strength of 30 MLAs and before talking to BJP leaders had a word with Rahul Gandhi and stated that he has had 'enough'. They said that Pilot told Rahul Gandhi that it has been a long time since the government came in power and the post of the Chief Minister should be offered to him.

He complained that neither a good portfolio given was given to him and now Gehlot is also planning to take the post of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee from him. Rahul Gandhi's gave him assurance that he will have to wait for some time and something good will be offered to him but the deal did not go through, sources added.

Senior Congress leader and spokesperson Randeep Surjewala on Sunday night said that the party will complete its five-year tenure and neither the BJP not its allies have any reason to rejoice. Surjewala made the comments while speaking to reporters after landing in Jaipur along with Ajay Maken.

Both the leaders have been sent by Congress high-command as central observers to save the government in the state. "Congress party is united. It will be united and Congress party's government will complete its tenure by serving the people of Rajasthan in the same manner as it is doing now. There is no reason for BJP and its allies to rejoice without any reason," Surjewala said. 

Rajasthan Congress in-charge Avinash Pande informed that 109 MLAs have signed a letter expressing their trust and support to govt led by CM Ashok Gehlot. 

After the conclusion of the Congress MLA meeting at CM Ashok Gehlot's Jaipur residence, Congress MLA Rajendra Gudda, on Sunday, claimed that Congress was in touch with some BJP MLAs. Reaffirming that the Gehlot government maintained its majority, he added that Congress will bring more MLAs than it will lose. Sources claim that Congress has issued a whip to all MLAs to attend the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meet scheduled on Monday. Pilot was absent from today's meet.

In a massive blow to Congress, Deputy CM Sachin Pilot is likely to join BJP in the next 24 hours claim sources on Sunday. Pilot, who met with former colleague Scindia earlier in the day, is likely to join the saffron party in the presence of BJP chief JP Nadda. This move comes after  Congress has issued a whip to all MLAs to attend the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meet scheduled on Monday, which Pilot has refused to attend.

Congress MLA Mahendra Jeet Singh Malviya says, "This is a small rift, such fights happen between son and father. I am a Congressman and will remain with Gehlot ji. SOG has notice to both CM and Deputy CM and we will help SOG in all possible way," ahed all MLA meet at Gehlot's residence.

Rajasthan Deputy CM & Congress leader Sachin Pilot not to attend Congress Legislative Party meeting scheduled to be held tomorrow.  Pilot says Ashok Gehlot Govt in minority after over 30 Congress and some independent MLAs have pledged support to Sachin Pilot.

CM Gehlot to ask mass resignation of all ministers at all-Congress MLA meet, report sources - hinting at cabinet reshuffle.  Pilot & 22 supporting MLAs are not attending meeting. 10 ministers have reached CM Gehlot's residence, claim sources.

Sources report that Pilot's Ministry of Panchayat raj's buiding has been sealed as 2 employees test COVID-19 positive, as per secretariat sources.

While Congress maintains that there is no rift between CM Ashok Gehlot and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, 30 Congress MLAs along with several independent MLAs have reportedly extended their support to Pilot on Sunday, as per ANI sources. These MLA have allegedly said that they are with him irrespective of his decision. With this development, Pilot's camp has increased with 30 MLAs, which reduces Congress's majority from 107 to 77, cutting close to BJP's 72 MLAs. Currently, Congress which enjoys the support of 12 Independent MLAs, holds a 48-seat majority over Opposition's 76.

• We went to Delhi due to personal reasons. If media says we went there for this reason or that, then it's not our problem. We don't want to be part of any controversy. We are the soldiers of Congress & will be with the party till our last breath: Rajasthan Congress MLA Rohit Bohra
• Sachin Pilot ji is president of Rajasthan Congress & I'm secretary of state party unit so my meeting with Sachin ji is a routine exercise. We - Chetan Dudi, Rohit Behra & I (Pilot loyalists)- have not been approached by BJP: Rajasthan Congress MLA Danish Abrar
• At a time when we are fighting against COVID-19, BJP is fighting for the power. The Rajasthan government will complete its full term: State Cabinet Minister Harish Choudhary

Congress MLA's meeting at 10 .30 AM tomorrow at Gehlot residence apart from today's meeting at 8 PM. Sources add that top Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and Ajay Maken have flown to Jaipur to attend the meeting.

After meeting with Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, his former Congress colleague - Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Sunday said that it was sad to see Pilot being sidelined and persecuted by Rajasthan CM. Moreover, he said that 'talent and capability' find little credence in Congress. Pilot who met with Scindia, has decided to skip the meeting called by CM Gehlot along with all 22 MLAs supporting him and currently holed in Delhi. 

"All Congress MLAs in touch with me; Govt stable and will last its full term. BJP is trying to destabilise Congress govt in Rajasthan. Everyone should cooperate with Rajasthan SOG; No harm in joining probe," says Cong Gen Secy in-charge for Rajasthan Avinash Pande to PTI

He added, "Cong president Sonia Gandhi has been updated on developments in Rajasthan. Trying to reach out to Sachin Pilot, have left messages for him."

Sources add that Pilot along with 22 MLAs supporting him will skip the evening meeting called by CM Gehlot. Moreover, former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi will not meet Pilot at his Delhi residence report sources.

Sources report that almost all MLAs of Bharatpur district are in Delhi. Minister Vishvendra Singh, Bayana MLA Amar Singh Jatav are in Delhi while Kaman's MLA Zahida Khan is in Gurugram, report sources. Sources state that some other MLAs can move to Delhi amid the political crisis in state

Sources report Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi's team is in touch with Ashok Gehlot and Pilot too. The party is reportedly trying to resolve the crisis so as to not give BJP a chance to repeat a Madhya Pradesh in Rajasthan. Congress is confident that the government would survive in the state, high command will listen to both sides and will take a decision in the interest of the organisation.

CM Ashok Gehlot gets in touch with 84 mlas amid crisis. Sources say that MLAs supporting Ssachin Pilot  stands at 16 to 18 MLAs

Pilot meets Jyotiraditya Scindia, repoert sources

KC Venugopal has submitted a report to Rahul Gandhi clarifying that the notice which has been given by SOG is wrong, report sources.  Meanwhile, Pilot has sought time from Rahul Gandhi to discuss on the current situation. Sources report that  Pilot camp says he should remain in PCC and a good portfolio in the cabinet should be offered to Pilot. Deputy CM Pilot too is looking to discuss the same with Rahul Gandhi at his meeting at 5:30 PM

Chief Minister of Rajasthan & Congress leader Ashok Gehlot calls a meeting of party MLAs and ministers in Jaipur tonight.

Amid the political turmoil in Rajasthan, CM Ashok Gehlot on Sunday issued a clarification about the notice issued by the state police's Special Operations Group (SOG) to Deputy CM Sachin Pilot on July 10. Gehlot stated that the notices were issued not just to Pilot but also multiple MLAs including himself in connection with the alleged involvement of BJP leaders for toppling the state government. Moreover, he clarified that they were being called to merely record their statement. According to him, it was not correct to read too much into this.

In the FIR registered on July 10 under IPC sections 124-A (sedition) and 120-B (conspiracy), two BJP members were arrested for trying to lure Congress MLAs. After intercepting some conversations, it noted that attempts were being made to topple the government before the Rajya Sabha polls. As per the conversations, Pilot was reportedly in touch with the BJP camp to become the CM. 
 

Rajasthan has been witnessing a power tussle between the young and old brigade of the Congress which could possibly lead to the collapse of the Gehlot-led government in the state. A similar occurrence had been witnessed almost 4 months ago when Jyotiraditya Scindia broke away 22 MLAs from the Kamal Nath camp, joining hands with the BJP to topple the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh. With Pilot ferrying about 25 odd MLAs to Delhi, followed by a few disgruntled independents, here is why history could repeat itself. 

In the assembly of 200 seats, the Congress has 106 MLAs, including six who defected to the party from the BSP last year. The party enjoys the support of 12 of the 13 Independent MLAs in the state, out of which 3 have pulled back earlier this morning. Along with this, 2 tribal MLAs, 1 RJD MLA are supporting the Congress, and 2 CPI(M) MLAs are providing outside support to the Gehlot-led camp. On the other hand, BJP has 72 MLAs along with RLP which has 3 MLAs. With this, Congress coalition holds a 48-seat majority over the Opposition. 

However, according to the latest reports, Sachin Pilot has broken away 25 Rajasthan MLAs who have arrived with him to Delhi, followed by some (3) independent MLAs as well. If 25 MLAs were to defect, the halfway point would fall to 88. The BJP, however, with 72 MLAs, 3 from Hanuman Beniwal's RLP and 3 Independents, would have 78 MLAs, still leaving them short at the moment. 

General Secretary All India Congress Committee Avinash Pande says that all Congress MLAs are loyal to the party and BJP's horse trading attempts will not be a success. He has emphasized that Congress in Rajasthan is united under leadership of Ashok Gehlot. 

Rajasthan Minister Ashok Chandana has said that if Congress netas from the state will jump ships, they will be treated in the same way as Congress leaders who joined BJP in Madhya Pradesh are being treated. He was referring to Jyotiraditya Scindia and others who joined BJP, which led to the fall of Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh in March.

After the summons to Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, now the state police has summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as well as other MLAs

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot on SOG notices to DyCM Pilot, party MLAs

Congress MLA Amin Kagzi says 20-22 MLAs with Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot. He also said that they will return to Delhi soon. this comes after Rajasthan Police has summoned its own Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot. Earlier it has also summoned CM Ashok Gehlot

Amid the tussle in the Rajasthan Congress and the alleged fissure between CM Ashok Gehlot and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, BJP's National Vice President Baijayant Jay Panda has taken to Twitter and said that there is a cost of 'suppressing talent in favour of undeserving.'

On Sunday, even as Sachin Pilot is planning a show of strength in Delhi, with Rajasthan ATS and SOG summoning him allegedly after leaders of the latter agencies met with CM Ashok Gehlot, Panda in a tweet wrote that when undeserving are favoured for a long time, there comes a time that 'they will go elsewhere to achieve its true potential.' 

NCP who is an ally of Congress in Mahrashtra has opined on the tussle in Rajasthan 

The Rajasthan ATS and SOG have sent a letter to Deputy CM Pilot urging him to be present at the Jaipur Police station, in what appears to be a direct show of power by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. 

Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal reacts on the tussle between Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot.  

Senior cops like Rajasthan's law and order DG, cops from ACB, SOG also present in CM Ashok Gehlot residence, as per sources.

Sachin pilot in Delhi along with his supportive MLAs. Few independent MLAs also with Pilot, as per sources. Sachin Pilot wants to show his power to the high command, as per sources. Last night, Pilot met Ahmed Patel and asserted his point of view.

Independent MLAs - Om Prakash Hudla, Suresh Tank and Khushveer Singh who gave support to Congress from outside reached Delhi, as per sources. Sources say they may pull back their support. ACB summoned them yesterday in context of luring the tribal MLA's to topple the government.

Three independent MLAs, Om Prakash Hudla, Suresh Tank, Khushveer Singh, who supported the Congress have reached Delhi. It is being speculated that they will pull back their support. The Anti Corruption Bureau had summoned them on Saturday after a preliminary inquiry was launched against the three for alleged involvement in offering money to the tribal MLAs to topple the ruling government. Their names came up during an investigation by ACB on attempts to indulge in horse-trading.

Phones of MPs and MLAs are being taped in Rajasthan by the state police's special operation group (SOG) in violation of the right to privacy, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) convener Hanuman Beniwal alleged on Saturday. Beniwal, whose party is an NDA constituent, also alleged that attempts were made by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to poach three RLP MLAs during the Rajya Sabha elections last month. "The SOG is tapping phones (of MPs and MLAs) on directions of the state government," the Nagaur MP said.

According to sources, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot has called for a late night meeting in Jaipur. Top ministers of his camp are now arriving at the Chief Minister's residence.

Sources state that the Rajasthan Home department has mandated citizens to make a pass to get out of the state, amid possible government collapse.