Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot denies being offered Congress president's post
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Ahmedabad: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said he was fulfilling duties assigned to him and denied the reports he would become the Congress president.
Gehlot, known to be a favourite choice of the Gandhis' for the key post, said he is an observer for Gujarat polls and added that he would not compromise on his duties in Rajasthan, hinting at his interest to continue as the chief minister.
Sonia Gandhi offered Gehlot the party's top position as they met in Delhi, according to India Today.
Gehlot's name has been bandied about for long as the potential new party chief just as the Gandhis are unwilling to take up the position.
Responding to the reports about the offer, he said he heard it from the media and feigned ignorance, saying that he was fulfilling duties assigned to him.
A trust lieutenant of Gandhi's, Gehlot comes with vast oeuvre of political and administrative experience, making him an acceptable face across the party's leadership.
Reports say that Gehlot is not keen to become the party president as he is not willing to relinquish his current job, giving a stint to Sachin Pilot. Gehlot on Monday said the party unanimously wanted Rahul Gandhi to become the party chief.
Gehlot, who was made a senior observer of Gujarat polls on July 12, expressed confidence about the Congress winning polls in Gujarat.