In a significant turn of events, Ashok Gehlot has tendered his resignation as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a resounding victory in the state's recent elections. The poll trends, which were steadily stabilizing for nearly 11 hours into the counting process, prompted Gehlot to visit Governor Kalraj Mishra's residence and submit his resignation.

With the BJP currently leading in 115 seats, comfortably surpassing the majority mark of 100, the Congress party finds itself trailing far behind with 70 seats. The outcome of the November 25 polls has left Gehlot and the Congress party stunned and introspective.

Accepting the defeat, Gehlot expressed his shock, stating, "This shows that we were not fully successful in taking our policies, laws, and governance practices to the people." Despite his disappointment, he wished the incoming government success and offered some advice. "Just because we were not successful despite working doesn't mean the new government doesn't work at all," he stated, urging the next government to build upon the initiatives introduced during his tenure, such as the Old Pension Scheme.

Addressing the media, Gehlot emphasized that the Congress party would examine the reasons behind the election results. Responding to questions regarding the demand for new faces within the party, he remarked, "There was talk of bringing new faces, and new faces should come, but this demand was not there in MP and Chhattisgarh, and still, we lost the election." Gehlot dismissed the notion that the outcome would have been different if different candidates had been fielded, emphasizing that the reasons for their defeat were more complex.

The infighting between Gehlot's camp and his ousted deputy Sachin Pilot is being highlighted as a pivotal factor that contributed to the Congress party's setback. Last year, Pilot led a mutiny against the government, but the Congress was able to salvage the situation. Nonetheless, the ongoing tensions between the two leaders continued to impact the party's chances in the election.

Despite the setback, Gehlot remains committed to serving the people and working for their welfare. "I will continue to work for the people irrespective of whether I hold a post or not," he affirmed.

The results of the Rajasthan elections have sent shockwaves through the Congress party, prompting a period of introspection and analysis. As the BJP celebrates its victory, attention now turns to the formation of the new government and the path forward for Rajasthan under new leadership.