A meeting between Congress leader Sachin Pilot and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has stirred speculation and optimism within the Congress party. On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Pilot visited Gehlot's residence in Jaipur, marking his first visit since Gehlot vacated the Chief Minister's Residence in December 2023, following the Congress party's defeat in the Rajasthan assembly elections. The meeting, which lasted approximately 90 minutes to two hours, has caught the attention of party workers and political observers alike.
The stated purpose of Pilot's visit was to personally invite Gehlot to an event commemorating the 25th death anniversary of Rajesh Pilot, Sachin Pilot's father and a former Union Minister. The event is scheduled for June 11 in Dausa, a political stronghold of the Pilot family, at the Rajesh Pilot Memorial in Bhandaana-Jirota. The commemoration is expected to draw a large gathering of supporters and senior Congress leaders, including Rama Pilot and other family members. Rajesh Pilot, who passed away in 2000, was a popular leader known for his grassroots connection and service as an MP from Dausa for many years.
While the invitation to the memorial event served as the official reason for the meeting, the extended duration of the interaction between Pilot and Gehlot has fueled speculation about broader political implications. Their relationship has been complex and often contentious over the past several years, marked by a power struggle that intensified after the 2018 Rajasthan Assembly elections. Although Pilot was a strong contender for the Chief Minister's post, the Congress high command appointed Gehlot, leading to internal tensions and, eventually, a political crisis when Pilot led a revolt against the Gehlot government in 2020.
Traditionally, Gehlot and his faction have avoided attending the annual memorial events for Rajesh Pilot. However, this year's direct invitation from Sachin Pilot, coupled with his personal visit to Gehlot's home, is being interpreted as a potential gesture of unity within the Rajasthan Congress.
In recent months, there have been signs of a potential rapprochement between the two leaders. They have been seen sharing lighter moments at public functions, hinting at a possible thaw in their relationship. Following Saturday's meeting, Gehlot shared a cordial message on social media, acknowledging Pilot's invitation and expressing respect for the late Rajesh Pilot, recalling their shared history as Members of Parliament.
The Congress leadership may view the recent developments as a welcome sign, as unity between Gehlot and Pilot could be crucial for the party's prospects in future elections. Whether this meeting signifies a genuine and lasting reconciliation remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly represents a noteworthy moment in Rajasthan's political landscape. All eyes are now on whether Ashok Gehlot will attend the June 11 event, and if this meeting will mark a turning point in their political rivalry, signaling a united front for the Congress party in the upcoming challenges.
