Bhajanlal Government Reverses Gehlot’s Decision on New Districts

In a major decision taken during the cabinet meeting on Saturday, Rajasthan's Bhajanlal Sharma government announced the cancellation of nine new districts and three divisions formed during the final days of the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government. This decision alters the administrative landscape of Rajasthan, reducing the number of districts from 50 to 41 and divisions from 10 to 7.

Cabinet Minister Jogaram Patel, during a press conference following the meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, informed that districts such as Dudu, Kekri, Shahpura, Neem Ka Thana, Anupgarh, Gangapur City, Jaipur Rural, Jodhpur Rural, and Sanchore, along with Banswara, Sikar, and Pali divisions, have been dissolved.

Reorganization for Public Benefit
Eight districts, including Balotra, Khairthal-Tijara, Beawar, Kotputli-Behror, Didwana-Kuchaman, Phalodi, Salumber, and Deeg, will remain intact. The state government has assured the allocation of necessary financial and administrative resources to these districts to enhance the governance structure.

Additionally, the government plans to reorganize district councils, panchayat samitis, and gram panchayats to improve administrative efficiency.

Congress Protests and Announces Agitation
The Congress party has strongly opposed the decision, terming it anti-people. Leader of Opposition Govind Singh Dotasra announced a statewide agitation starting January 1, challenging the BJP government’s move.

Allegations of Political Vendetta
Congress leader Tikaram Juli accused the BJP government of political vendetta. He highlighted that the Gehlot government had established new districts to bring governance closer to the people, while the BJP government’s decision disregards public needs.

Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, during her tenure, had supported smaller administrative units, citing their importance. The BJP’s current stance contradicts its previous position.

Expectations for Development in the New Year
The Congress party has urged the Chief Minister to reconsider this decision, keeping public welfare in mind. With this move, political tensions in Rajasthan are expected to escalate in the coming days.