'Won't say no but...': Ashok Gehlot on Congress presidential polls

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has said that he will not back out if the party wants him to contest the upcoming Congress presidential poll. Gehlot, who arrived at New Delhi on Wednesday morning, was interacting with the media.

"I will not back out from any responsibility and will serve the party wherever and in whichever capacity I am required in this hour of crisis," he said. However, he said the party wants Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi to take over as the party president.

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Gehlot said that will discharge all the responsibilities given and hinted that he can manage the posts of both --the party chief and chief minister-- simultaneously. He also said that he is not aspiring for any post but wants to work towards ousting the "fascist" (BJP) government.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor arrived at the AICC office to check the delegate list ahead of the notifications of the Congress presidential polls as he braces himself to file nomination papers. Tharoor is being seen as a potential candidate from the G-23 group to challenge the loyalist in case of a contest.

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The Rajasthan CM is likely to meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and then expected to join the "Bharat Jodo Yatra" with Rahul Gandhi in Kerala.

"Everybody wants a stronger Congress and all parties must follow a democratic process. The elections in the party are open for all Congress members."

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On Tuesday night, Gehlot addressed Rajasthan party MLAs and hinted at his nomination. He is tipped to be the presidential candidate for the Congress poll.

• Ashok Gehlot
• Congress
• Congress President
• Shashi Tharoor
• AICC