Ashok Gehlot Criticizes Government Over Drought and Livestock Crisis in Rajasthan

Jaipur, October 8: Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has launched a scathing attack on the state government regarding the drought conditions and the plight of livestock in western Rajasthan. He took to social media on Thursday to express his concerns, stating that cattle are dying from hunger and thirst while the government remains passive, merely making announcements. Gehlot urged Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma to immediately declare a drought, open fodder depots, establish animal camps, and provide water through tankers.

“Answer us, BJP government, which thrives on cow politics. How long will livestock suffer from a lack of fodder and water? Chief Minister, stop making hollow announcements. Declare a drought immediately, open fodder depots and animal camps, and supply water through tankers,” Gehlot posted on social media.

Gehlot pointed out that the Chief Minister had announced the opening of fodder depots in Barmer on September 30, but eight days later, no depots or animal camps have been established. The Chief Minister made these announcements related to drought relief in Bachhadau, Barmer.

Gehlot highlighted the timeline of events:
– September 30 (Wednesday): The Chief Minister announced drought relief measures, including fodder depots and water supply through tankers until December 31 in Barmer and Jaisalmer.
– October 3 (Saturday): Announcement of Panchayat elections, with a model code of conduct implemented in rural areas.
– October 8 (Thursday): Gehlot’s accusation that no fodder depots or animal camps have opened eight days later.

Gehlot questioned why preparations were not made before the model code of conduct was enforced, given the clear signs of drought. He also inquired why permission for relief measures was not sought from the Election Commission.

In another matter, Gehlot mentioned that local administration in Gadra Road, Barmer, claims proposals for fodder depots have been sent for approval across 23 patwar mandals, but no approval has been granted. He accused the administration of using the model code of conduct as an excuse.

According to local residents, many cows have already died, and those that remain are forced to eat plastic and garbage. Fodder prices have tripled, leading to complaints of hoarding. These claims were made by Gehlot, citing local residents and the administration.

Gehlot also raised concerns about the government’s subsidy for gaushalas (cow shelters), stating that while the government provides ₹50 per day for large animals, operators report that actual costs range from ₹100 to ₹150. Furthermore, subsidies are not being disbursed on time.

The Rajasthan Cow Service Committee is organizing a ‘Gau Adhikar Hunkar Rally’ in Sanganeer on October 9, demanding an extension of the subsidy duration from nine months to a full year and ensuring timely payments.

Gehlot noted that even BJP MLA Chhotu Singh Bhati from Jaisalmer is calling for an immediate drought declaration, yet there has been no response from the government. As of now, the state government, the Animal Husbandry Department, or the district administration of Barmer-Jaisalmer has not commented on Gehlot’s allegations.

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Kuldeep Singh Chundawat: My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.