Congress chief Kharge set to decide on Sachin Pilot's future

NEW DELHI: Sachin Pilot's fast constitutes "anti-party activity", Congress said Wednesday even as the Rajasthan leader arrived in Delhi. Sources said party chief Mallikarjun Kharge will decide on the issue: action against Pilot or his 'rehab' to a key party post isn't ruled out.
AICC incharge of Rajasthan Sukhjinder Randhawa Wednesday held a brief discussion with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on the Rajasthan issue, and will submit a written report on Thursday. He told reporters that he agrees with the issue of corruption that Pilot has raised, but he should have spoken about it in the assembly session in the discussion on the governor's address which would have forced the chief minister to respond. "I am analysing all that happened and will prepare a report as to who is at fault. The press conference that he did (Pilot), I did not feel that it was pro-party," he said.
While Pilot arrived in the capital on Wednesday, he did not have any meetings with the AICC leaders and was not summoned either. However, sources close to him said that Pilot does not view any transgression in his dharna or post-dharna comments, and if called, he would explain the situation to the leadership.
Sources said Kharge will decide on the issue based on the report of the state incharge. On the table is not just the option of disciplinary action against Pilot, but also the possibility of seeking clarification from CM Ashok Gehlot or even conciliatory talks between the factions. Some organisational issues in Rajasthan may also come up for discussion and decision. Pilot's rehabilitation in a key post is seen as an option too, if the leadership is convinced that he will stick to discipline.
When asked about Pilot's grievance that no action has been taken against the three leaders of the Gehlot camp who were issued showcause notices for the boycott of legislature party meeting last September, Randhawa said action may not have been taken in the past when it should have been, but "this time action will be taken".
Amid the drama, AICC for the third day running backed chief minister Gehlot and his governance.