The fire at the Pachpadra Refinery has led to accusations of negligence and administrative pressure, with former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticizing the state government. Gehlot suggested that the blaze in the newly constructed refinery may have resulted from oversight or pressure to expedite project completion. He highlighted concerns over safety standards and delays in the refinery’s opening, emphasizing the importance of following protocols in such facilities.
Gehlot’s remarks come amidst investigations by various agencies and experts into the incident at the refinery project managed by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited. The refinery, constructed at a cost of around Rs 79,459 crore, was set to be inaugurated by PM Modi but the event was postponed due to the fire. Gehlot also criticized the current administration for what he perceives as a lack of tangible outcomes despite numerous announcements.
Expressing further apprehensions, Gehlot raised issues regarding pending payments in the Public Health Engineering Department, amounting to approximately Rs 4,500 crore. He warned of potential protests by contractors and industrial bodies if the dues are not settled promptly. Gehlot also criticized the handling of welfare schemes, particularly citing challenges in the implementation of the Rajiv Gandhi Health Scheme.
Touching on agrarian distress, Gehlot reiterated his call for a loan waiver for farmers, drawing attention to the Chief Minister’s recent remarks about farmers’ working days. He condemned the Chief Minister’s comments as disrespectful to the farming community and out of touch with reality. Gehlot also questioned the delay in implementing the Women’s Reservation Bill, accusing the government of misleading the public on the issue.
