Ashok Gehlot, a prominent figure in Indian politics, has had a long and impactful career. His journey, marked by both significant achievements and controversies, provides a fascinating insight into the dynamics of Indian politics.

Biography/Wiki

Born on May 3, 1951, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot’s age in 2023 was 72. Inspired from a young age by Mahatma Gandhi, he embraced Gandhian principles. He pursued higher education, earning a B.Sc. in 1971, an M.A. in 1973, and an L.L.B. in 1976, all from Jodhpur University. Initially aiming for a medical career, he later shifted his focus. His involvement in the 1971 East Bengal Refugee Crisis brought him to the attention of Indira Gandhi.

Family & Caste

Gehlot hails from a Backward ‘Mali’ (gardener) family. His father was Babu Laxman Singh Gehlot. While his mother’s name remains less known publicly, he has two brothers, Kanwar Sen Gehlot (deceased) and Agrasen Gehlot, and a sister residing in Jodhpur. He married Sunita Gehlot on November 27, 1977, and they have two children: a son, Vaibhav Gehlot, and a daughter, Sonia.

Career

Gehlot’s political career began early. His organizational skills, evident during his refugee camp volunteer work, led to his involvement in the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), where he became the first state president in 1974. His rise continued through various roles within the Indian National Congress, culminating in his multiple terms as Chief Minister of Rajasthan.

Here’s a timeline of key career milestones:

• 1974: First state President, NSUI
• 1979: President, Jodhpur District Congress Committee
• 1980: Elected to the 7th Lok Sabha
• 1982: General Secretary, Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee; Union Deputy Minister, Department of Tourism
• 1984: Union Deputy Minister, Department of Sports
• 1985, 1994, 1997: President, Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee
• 1998, 2008, 2018: Chief Minister of Rajasthan

Controversies

Gehlot’s career has not been without controversy. His name surfaced in the 2017 “Paradise Papers” investigation, though he was ultimately cleared due to lack of evidence. Another controversy involved allegations of preferential treatment towards firms linked to his family members during his tenure as Chief Minister.

Assets/Net Worth

As per his 2013 affidavit, Gehlot declared assets including bank fixed deposits of ?55 lakhs, jewellery worth over ?10 lakhs, and a net worth of approximately ?1.5 crore.

Facts

Several interesting facts highlight various aspects of Gehlot’s life:

• He is a teetotaler and vegetarian.
• He observes a daily fast from sunset to dawn.
• His father was a magician, and Ashok assisted in his performances.
• He performed magic tricks for Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi during their childhood.
• He founded the Bharat Seva Sansthan, which offers free books and ambulance services.