Congress Targets Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma Over Alleged IAS Officer Controversy

Rajasthan political circles have seen heightened debate following reports concerning IAS officer Shikhar Agarwal and alleged corruption involving forty villas. Following the state government's decision to place the officer on APO (Awaiting Posting Orders), the opposition Congress party launched public criticisms against Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and his administration.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee President Govind Singh Dotasara took to social media platform X to voice their concerns and demands regarding the matter.

Statements from Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Former CM Ashok Gehlot questioned the developments online, claiming that reports involving forty villas are startling and require accountability from the Chief Minister. He referenced decisions made during the officer's tenure across various roles, including collector, pollution control board chairman, and Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

• Gehlot called for a high-level investigation, suggesting the case should be referred to agencies such as the CBI or ED rather than relying solely on an APO status or anti-corruption bureau (ACB) inquiry.
• He urged the officer and spouse, currently abroad, to return and clarify their position publicly.
• He also alleged that past administrative friction involving senior officials needed broader scrutiny.

Govind Singh Dotasara Criticizes Government Accountability

State Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasara also targeted the ruling BJP administration, posting remarks questioning how the Chief Minister can remain unaccountable when questions are raised regarding an official who reportedly held significant influence in the CMO.

• Dotasara claimed that decisions favoring a specific resort company allegedly bear the Chief Minister's signature and involvement.
• He demanded direct answers from the state leadership regarding the allegations.

Practical Implications and Verification

These statements reflect political claims made by opposition leaders on public platforms. Citizens and observers looking to verify official administrative actions, investigation statuses, or government responses can monitor official press releases from the Government of Rajasthan or accredited news reporting outlets for updates.