Then Rajesh Pilot, now Sachin Pilot: Congress’ hate for rising talent

Rajesh Pilot, a military veteran turned politician, experienced a rapid ascent within the Indian political landscape, initially bolstered by his close ties with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi. However, a rift developed when he contested against Sitaram Kesri for the party president’s post in 1997, leading to a public feud with Ashok Gehlot.

Gehlot strategically used the fallout between the Gandhis and Rajesh Pilot to gain political advantage in Rajasthan. The tension between the two leaders played out publicly, especially during an event in Jodhpur where Pilot sarcastically remarked on Gehlot’s absence. Despite their proximity to the Gandhi family and shared roots in Rajasthan, their presence became a source of rivalry. In 1998, Congress secured victory in Rajasthan with 153 seats, and Gehlot, despite being an MP and PCC Chief, aimed to become the Chief Minister.

Rajesh Pilot, along with other contenders, opposed Gehlot’s candidacy, but Gehlot succeeded in assuming the role. The cracks in the relationship deepened during the 1999 elections when Rajesh Pilot’s stronghold constituency, Dausa, witnessed a significant decline in his victory margin. This hinted at internal struggles within Congress, and Pilot’s rebellion became more pronounced.

The media drew parallels between the challenges faced by both father and son when opposing the Gandhi family’s decisions favouring the Gehlot camp. Gehlot’s animosity towards Rajesh Pilot persisted even after his passing.

The rivalry extended to the next generation, particularly with Sachin Pilot. Despite Congress remaining out of power at the Centre and Sachin Pilot’s diminished influence in Rajasthan, the challenge posed by Sachin Pilot in 2022 compelled Gehlot to reveal his perspective on the younger Pilot.