Political tensions in Rajasthan have escalated over allegations of phone tapping involving Cabinet Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, as the opposition intensifies its attacks on the state government. Leader of Opposition, Tikaram Juli, has raised concerns about the Chief Minister’s silence on the matter, while the ruling BJP is dealing with internal controversy surrounding Meena’s allegations. The controversy intensified after Meena’s phone tapping allegations became a point of contention in the Rajasthan assembly.
The political situation in Rajasthan remains tense, with both the opposition and BJP dealing with the consequences of Meena’s claims.
Meena’s Allegations Of Phone Tapping
The controversy first erupted on February 6 when Kirodi Lal Meena, a senior BJP leader, made the serious allegation during a public meeting that his phone was being tapped by the government. In the viral video, Meena expressed his frustration with the current administration, claiming that despite his efforts to expose corruption, no action was being taken against the wrongdoers. Meena also criticised the government’s inaction on cases involving police officers arrested in fake cases and its failure to address fraudulent exam cancellations.
BJP Faces Internal Controversy Over Meena’s Claims
BJP state president Madan Rathore responded to the internal party controversy surrounding Meena’s allegations. Rathore emphasised that issuing a notice to Meena was an internal matter within the party. He asserted that if the party felt the need for any inquiry or explanation from a member, it would handle it internally, describing the situation as a “family matter.” Rathore urged Meena’s supporters not to resort to violence and reassured them that the party would handle the matter calmly.
Rathore said, “If any inquiry has to be done from any member of the family, questions have to be asked, then the party does it. It is a family matter; we will solve it within the family.”
Meanwhile, Rathore also commented on Meena’s response to the notice, where Meena had described himself as a disciplined party soldier. Rathore welcomed this statement, saying that all party members should strive to work as disciplined soldiers.
Opposition Demands Clarity From Chief Minister
Meanwhile, Juli, taking to the social media platform criticised the lack of a firm response from the government. He pointed out that Rathore had issued a notice to Meena, requesting a reply within three days regarding his claims. The notice came after a viral video in which Meena accused the government of wiretapping his phone and alleged that authorities were monitoring his every move through the CID.
Juli questioned why the Chief Minister had not addressed the issue in the Legislative Assembly on February 7, especially after State Home Minister Jawahar Singh publicly declared Meena’s allegations false. Juli suggested that the Chief Minister’s silence raised suspicions, indicating that something was amiss. He also emphasised that the opposition would not allow the assembly to run until the Chief Minister provided a clear statement in the House.
Congress Criticises Government, BJP Intervenes
The Congress party strongly criticised the government, prompting the BJP high command to intervene. BJP National President J.P. Nadda reportedly discussed the matter with Rathore, which led to the issuance of the show-cause notice to Meena. The notice stated that Meena’s public allegations of phone tapping were false and detrimental to the BJP-led government’s reputation, seeking an explanation from him within three days.
