We Tried To Talk To Sachin Pilot, Says Congress On Rajasthan Crisis

Hours after Sachin Pilot reiterated to the media that he was not joining the BJP, the Congress responded with a dare for the rebel - "Stop accepting the hospitality of the BJP in Haryana immediately". Since Sachin Pilot launched his revolt on Sunday, rebel Congress MLAs loyal to him have been camping at two hotels in Gurgaon near Delhi. The Congress has accused the BJP of trying to reel in these MLAs with offers of money and posts. Sachin Pilot said speculation linking him to the BJP were "attempts to malign him with the Gandhis", which telegraphed his intent to patch up with the Congress. With the rebel squad significantly weakened by differences, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot hit out at Sachin Pilot and also claimed he has enough MLAs to stay in power. A test of strength looks unlikely, however, with the BJP saying "it is not needed as of now".