Ashok Gehlot Slams Rajasthan Government on Crime Against Women, Appeals to Media to Uphold Democracy Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has expressed shame and anger over the rising incidents of crime against women in the state. He urged the current government to make it their top priority to address the issue. "I am ashamed and angry that incidents are happening every day. It's astonishing," Gehlot said. He noted that newspapers consistently report on rapes, atrocities against women, and a record number of chain-snatching incidents. He highlighted a news report he had read which quoted chain-snatchers as saying Jaipur is the "most suitable place" for their activities due to its favorable conditions. Gehlot acknowledged that the current Police Commissioner, Biju George Joseph, is a good officer but stressed that strong action is needed, and he should receive support from the Director General of Police. He urged the Chief Minister, who also holds the Home Ministry portfolio, to prioritize curbing crimes against women and street robberies. "The top agenda of the Chief Minister, who is also the Home Minister, should be to sit and discuss and take the strictest possible steps," Gehlot said. He dismissed the current government's tendency to blame the previous administration for the state of affairs. "Even if we made mistakes, correct them now. How long will you keep blaming us for five years? The public is suffering," he stated, adding that the government has had over a year and a half to implement its own solutions and provide relief to the public. Responding to a question about Rahul Gandhi's allegations and the future of the Congress party, Gehlot directed his remarks towards the media. He warned that if the media remains silent, such issues will continue to persist. He emphasized the critical role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy. "The media holds the future of the country, and its very big participation is to determine that," he said. Gehlot appealed to journalists to not "disappear" and to remember their original purpose for entering the profession. He said that to fight for democracy, it is not enough for Rahul Gandhi to work alone. "The feelings of Rahul Gandhi must be adopted by everyone, and they must carry the conversation forward to create an atmosphere and put pressure on them," he concluded. He reiterated that a collective effort from the media, writers, and political parties is needed to educate the public and save the country's democracy.