Jaipur: Ashok Gehlot, despite losing the chief ministerial position in Rajasthan, has etched a historic legacy in the state’s politics. Gehlot stands as the sole leader to complete three terms as the Chief Minister, holding power from 1998 to 2023 for a continuous span of five years each time he assumed office. Although he fell short of breaking Mohan Lal Sukhadia’s record for the longest-serving CM, Gehlot’s resilience during political struggles sets him apart.
Gehlot first assumed the role of CM in 1998 but faced defeat in 2003. Remarkably, in 2008 and 2018, he secured the chief minister’s seat on the very first day and completed his term before stepping down—an unprecedented feat in Rajasthan’s political history. Despite persistent challenges, Gehlot successfully navigated political storms, evident in the 2020 rebellion led by Sachin Pilot and subsequent plans to replace him in September 2022.
Mohan Lal Sukhadia, the 5th CM of Rajasthan, held the reins four times but couldn’t complete two terms. Sukhadia served full terms only in 1957 and 1962, whereas in 1954 and 1967, he had shorter tenures. As a Chief Minister, Sukhadia’s total tenure spanned 17 years and 8 months, slightly surpassing Gehlot’s 15-year record.
Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje had the potential to match Gehlot’s endurance in this political marathon, but circumstances shifted. Central leadership entrusted Bhajanlal Sharma with the opportunity instead. Despite the hurdles, Gehlot’s political journey remains a significant chapter in Rajasthan’s political landscape, marked by resilience and tenacity.
In the intricate race of political longevity, Gehlot’s legacy endures, creating ripples in the historical narrative of Rajasthan’s chief ministers.
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