Rajasthan: Congress Leader Ashok Gehlot Slams PM Modi Over Pachpadra Refinery

Jaipur: The Pachpadra Refinery in Balotra, Rajasthan—a project stalled for several years—is finally set to fulfill the state's aspirations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the project on July 4. However, just ahead of the PM's visit, former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has targeted the central government.

Why Did Ashok Gehlot Accuse PM Modi?

Ashok Gehlot has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government of stalling work on the Pachpadra Refinery for five years. He stated that this delay has caused massive financial losses to both the national and state exchequers. Speaking to the media, Gehlot remarked that the refinery project has been a subject of political maneuvering.

Recounting the history of the refinery, the former Chief Minister said, "When Dr. Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister and Veerappa Moily was the Petroleum Minister at the Centre, we made a special request to them and secured approval for this refinery for Rajasthan. Our government had even initiated the work. However, after the change of government, the project was stalled for five years."

Why Did Project Cost Escalate?

Gehlot raised serious questions regarding the financial cost escalation caused by the delay. Citing figures, he said, "As the Prime Minister visits here [Rajasthan], he owes the public an answer: why was the work halted for five years? Due to this avoidable delay, the cost of the refinery—originally estimated at ₹37,000 crore—has now surged to over ₹80,000 crore. Who will bear the blame for this massive cost overrun and economic loss? This is something the Prime Minister and his government need to reflect upon."

Race to Claim Credit Before the Inauguration?

It is worth noting that the Pachpadra Refinery is one of the major oil projects not only for Rajasthan but for the entire country. While the Bharatiya Janata Party is showcasing the inauguration scheduled for July 4 as a major achievement, the Congress maintains that the foundation for this "dream project" was laid during its tenure. Consequently, political temperatures are likely to rise over this issue in the coming days.