Congress stumped BJP in Rajasthan

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, who ruled from 1998-2003, is now the likely chief minister of Rajasthan as Congress emerged as the single largest party in the state bagging 96 seats in the 200-member state assembly.

Congress party in Rajasthan bagged 96 seats and BJP won only 78 while BSP managed to win 6 and others scraped 20. Gehlot talking to reporters said, ‘the people of Rajasthan have given their clear verdict by voting against the poor governance of Vasundhara Raje led BJP.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje accepting her government's defeat in the state assembly maintained that people have not given a clear mandate to the Congress.

'I accept and respect this verdict, and we will play a constructive opposition and will not compromise on development issues' Raje added before leaving for the governor's house to tender her resignation.

Among Congress candidates, Gehlot, leader of opposition Hemaram Chaudhary, Brijendra Ola, son of former union minister Sis Ram Ola, and Bollywood actor and former state minister Bina Kak won their respective constituencies.

However, some of the top leaders of Congress including state party president C.P. Joshi and one of the front runner for chief minister lost by one vote from the temple town of Nathdwara. Among other congress leaders who lost the battle are former state unit chief B.D. Kalla, Harendra Mirdha, son of former union minister Ramniwas Mirdha and Vishwendra Singh.

With Congress heading to rule the state, the speculation for the post of chief minister is doing round the corner with names like Gehlot, Girja Vyas and Sees Ram Ola.

Replying to a query, a jubilant Gehlot, who would be the next chief minister, said a leader was chosen democratically and the Congress would announce the name at an appropriate time.