Gehlot targets Rajasthan CM over loss of lives due to rains, says lack of clarity on Meena's resignation

Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India] August 12 : Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has taken a dig at the BJP government in Rajasthan over the loss of lives due to heavy rains in the state, saying that there was uncertainty over the resignation status of the minister handling disaster management and such a situation at the time of difficulties faced by the state amounts to "deceit" with people.
"More than 25 lives have been lost due to heavy rains and related accidents across the state. It is unfortunate that in such a situation, people do not know whether the state's disaster relief minister is still holding the portfolio or his resignation has been accepted," Gehlot said on X.
He said Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma should clarify the situation so that proper monitoring and directions are issued for relief and rescue operations. "Such a state of confusion in difficult circumstances is like deceit with people of the state," Gehlot added.
Rajasthan Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, whose portfolios include Rural Development and Disaster Management, had said early last month that he has resigned from his post as the BJP had lost the Dausa seat in Lok Sabha polls. There has been suspense over his resignation.
Earlier, the Chief Minister held a meeting with officials and instructions were given to strengthen arrangements related to disaster management immediately.
The Chief Minister appealed to people to stay away from the water-logged areas and avoid using basements of buildings during rain.
Parts of Rajasthan witnessed intense rains, causing severe waterlogging in many areas and loss of lives due to large water flow in some rivers and water coming out of a dam.