INTERVIEW CREDIT : News18 NETWORK
Sachin Pilot criticized the BJP for interpreting the Congress manifesto through a religious lens, equating it with the Muslim League’s ideology as a tactic to create division, in an interview with News18. He also stood by the nomination of Ashok Gehlot’s son for office. As a senior figure in Congress, Pilot endorsed India’s measures against terrorism in Pakistan and advocated for similar actions along the Indo-China border. Speaking with News18, he interpreted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘400 paar’ (crossing 400 seats) statement as an attempt to eliminate opposition.
During his campaign journey in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, encompassing stops in Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Jaipur (Rural), and Alwar, Pilot projected confidence in Congress’s prospects in the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha Election. He boldly predicted Congress’s victory over the BJP in Rajasthan, contrasting this with previous election outcomes in 2014 and 2019 where Congress did not win any seats. Highlighting the superior quality of Congress’s candidates and campaign strategies this time around, Pilot also justified the selection of Vaibhav Gehlot, Ashok Gehlot’s son, as a candidate from Jalore. He pointed out the double standards in questioning the candidacy of Vaibhav while ignoring similar moves by other political families, such as Vasundhara Raje’s son’s candidacy in Jhalawar.
Pilot expressed concern over the BJP’s attempt to polarize voters by drawing parallels between the Congress manifesto and that of the Muslim League, arguing it reflected a broader issue of insecurity and a disregard for the inclusive ethos of the country. He affirmed that the timing for announcing candidates for constituencies like Amethi and Rae Bareli was a matter of strategic planning by the party, and highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s active role in the campaign trail. Reflecting on the past, Pilot suggested moving beyond what-ifs, such as the potential outcomes if he had been projected as the chief ministerial candidate, to focus on the current electoral battle.
Here are selected highlights from Pilot’s conversation with News18:
Q: Given Congress’s lack of success in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan, do you expect a different outcome this time?
Sachin Pilot: Over the past decade, significant changes have occurred. The BJP’s repeated wins in Rajasthan have led to voter fatigue, as many promises remain unfulfilled. The previous elections were influenced by unique circumstances related to border tensions. However, with a decade under the Modi government, issues such as price rise and farmer income have not been addressed satisfactorily. Despite a close vote share difference last election, there’s now a strong sentiment for change among voters. We believe our enhanced campaign and candidate quality will lead us to outperform the BJP in Rajasthan.
Q: How do you respond to Narendra Modi’s ‘400 Paar’ slogan for the NDA?
Sachin Pilot: The BJP’s overconfidence and the notion of achieving a sweeping victory signal a disregard for the electoral competition. Their attempt to dismantle the opposition by luring Congress leaders suggests a growing impatience among the electorate. It’s time for a shift towards addressing everyday issues rather than focusing on divisive or emotional rhetoric. The Congress and the INDIA alliance aim to center the electoral discourse on public concerns, challenging the BJP’s narrative and advocating for a democratic playing field.
Q: With India’s proactive defense measures against terrorism, including actions inside Pakistan, what’s your stance?
Sachin Pilot: Our party, and indeed the entire nation, supports measures that protect our borders and national security, whether it’s against threats from within or outside, including any necessary actions along the China border. It’s crucial that governance and actions, especially concerning security, transcend party politics and focus on the nation’s interest.
Q: The Prime Minister has criticized the Congress manifesto as being similar to that of the Muslim League. What’s your reaction?
Sachin Pilot: The accusations of religious bias in our manifesto are unfounded. Our commitments, such as legal guarantees for MSP, financial support for poor households, and employment for women, are inclusive and aim at upliftment across the board. The debate should focus on policies and progress rather than polarizing the electorate on religious lines.
Q: Neither you nor Ashok Gehlot are contesting these elections, yet other senior figures like Digvijaya Singh and Bhupesh Baghel are. Why is that?
Sachin Pilot: In Congress, roles are assigned to maximize impact; my focus is on campaigning across Rajasthan and other states. While some leaders are contesting, the collective effort and strategy are what ultimately matter. Our goal is a united front for the forthcoming elections.
Q: The candidature of Ashok Gehlot’s son, Vaibhav Gehlot, has been criticized as nepotism. Your thoughts?
Sachin Pilot: The decision to nominate Vaibhav Gehlot was based on his potential to win, much like any other candidate’s selection process. Highlighting one instance while ignoring similar practices elsewhere is an unfair critique. The electorate’s wisdom will be the ultimate judge.
Q: With questions about leadership in Congress, should Rahul Gandhi be leading more visibly?
Sachin Pilot: Elections are fought on issues, not personalities. The leadership within the INDIA alliance post-election will be determined by collective decision-making. Our current focus is on presenting a united front against the BJP, showcasing a commitment to addressing the concerns of the electorate.
Q: There’s been delay in announcing candidates for Amethi and Rae Bareli. Why?
Sachin Pilot: Our strategy involves phased candidate announcements. Decisions on candidatures are made with careful consideration, and our focus remains on ensuring the strongest possible representation for each phase of the election.
Q: What lessons were learned from the 2023 Rajasthan elections?
Sachin Pilot: Historical patterns in Rajasthan’s electoral politics underscore the need for innovation and adaptation. Reflecting on the past, we’re now focused on presenting a stronger, more responsive campaign to meet the people’s expectations.
Q: There’s speculation that Congress might have fared better in Rajasthan under your leadership. Your view?
Sachin Pilot: Looking back serves little purpose; our attention is squarely on the present and future. With a united campaign, we’re poised for a strong showing in the Lok Sabha elections, driven by popular support and a commitment to address the pressing issues facing our state and country.
Q: Why should voters consider the INDIA bloc?
Sachin Pilot: The INDIA bloc offers an alternative governance model that prioritizes the protection of constitutional bodies and addresses the misuse of central agencies for political gain. Our approach is focused on substantive issues, aiming for an election environment that transcends divisive politics and works towards the welfare of all citizens.
