Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Amid the political debate surrounding the Pachpadra refinery project in Rajasthan, BJP leader Satish Poonia launched a sharp attack on former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, questioning delays and cost-related decisions during the previous government’s tenure.
Speaking in Jaipur, Satish Poonia referred to the initial inauguration of the refinery project in 2013, which was carried out by Sonia Gandhi. He questioned why, despite the early inauguration, the project remained pending for several years and did not see completion during the Congress government’s tenure.
He alleged that the project was delayed for years and asked why it was not completed between 2021 and 2023 when the same government was in power.
Poonia further claimed that the proposed cost of the refinery during the Congress government was around ₹72,000 crore. According to him, the BJP government later worked towards securing a better financial deal, which helped in saving public money.
He stated that the BJP ensured a more cost effective approach to the project, resulting in savings for the government.
Targeting the opposition, Satish Poonia accused the Congress of attempting to mislead the public regarding the refinery project. He said that the issue should not be politicised and that development projects should be viewed from the perspective of public benefit rather than political gain.
He urged that politics should not be played over important infrastructure projects like the refinery, which are crucial for the state’s development.
The Pachpadra refinery project, located in Barmer district, has remained a key political and economic issue in Rajasthan, with both major parties presenting their perspectives on its progress, cost, and execution.
The project is expected to significantly boost industrial development, generate employment, and enhance revenue for the state, making it a major point of discussion in political campaigns.
With leaders from both sides presenting contrasting narratives, the refinery project continues to be a central issue in Rajasthan’s political discourse.
