A meeting between Congress leaders Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot in Jaipur on Saturday, June 7, 2025, has sparked considerable buzz within the political circles of Rajasthan. The meeting, which lasted for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, marks a significant development in the relationship between the two leaders who have been known for their strained ties and political rivalry.
The stated purpose of the meeting was an invitation from Sachin Pilot to Ashok Gehlot to attend a program commemorating the 25th death anniversary of Rajesh Pilot, Sachin Pilot's father and a former Union Minister. The commemoration event is scheduled for June 11 in Dausa, a region considered a stronghold for the Pilot family. The event will be held at the Rajesh Pilot Memorial, and is expected to draw a large gathering of supporters and senior Congress leaders, including Rama Pilot and other family members.
Ashok Gehlot acknowledged the meeting and the invitation on social media platform 'X', recalling his long association with Rajesh Pilot. He mentioned that both he and Rajesh Pilot were elected to the Lok Sabha together in 1980 and served as Members of Parliament for approximately 18 years. Gehlot expressed his continued sadness at Rajesh Pilot's sudden demise, emphasizing the significant loss it was for the party. Sachin Pilot also shared a photo of the meeting on 'X', reiterating his request for Gehlot to attend the tribute ceremony.
This meeting is particularly noteworthy as it is reported to be their first solo meeting since the Congress party's defeat in the 2023 Rajasthan assembly elections. It also marks Pilot's first visit to Gehlot's residence since Gehlot vacated the Chief Minister's Residence (CMR) following the election loss.
The political implications of this meeting are being widely discussed. The rivalry between Gehlot and Pilot has been a long-standing issue within the Rajasthan Congress, often posing challenges for the party leadership and affecting internal cohesion. Their strained relationship was particularly evident during the political crisis in July-August 2020, which led to Pilot's removal from his positions as Deputy Chief Minister and Congress state president after a rebellion against Gehlot's leadership.
Political observers suggest that this recent interaction could potentially reshape the Congress party's internal dynamics in Rajasthan. The prolonged rivalry between the two leaders has been seen as a contributing factor to the party's electoral defeat in 2023, a point frequently exploited by the BJP. A possible resolution or a thaw in their relationship could bring greater unity within the party.
In recent months, there have been signs of a potential rapprochement between Gehlot and Pilot. They have been seen sharing lighter moments at public functions, hinting at a possible easing of tensions. The friendly atmosphere of the meeting, coupled with Gehlot's respectful remarks about Rajesh Pilot, are viewed positively by Congress insiders. While the primary purpose of the meeting was to extend an invitation, the extended duration and cordial exchanges have fueled speculation about broader discussions aimed at mending fences and strategizing for the future of the party in Rajasthan. The Congress leadership may see this as an opportunity to consolidate its position and present a united front.
