"I am a farmer": Union minister defends Rs 99 lakh subsidy amid Gehlot's corruption charge
A Union minister has come under scrutiny after a subsidy of Rs 99 lakh was allegedly availed by his family, sparking a political row. The minister defended himself by stating, "I am a farmer," asserting that the subsidy was obtained legally under agricultural schemes.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, however, termed the incident a "new model of corruption," alleging that the subsidy was obtained through fraudulent means. Gehlot demanded a thorough investigation and called for the minister's resignation.
The controversy erupted after documents surfaced showing that the minister's family members had received the subsidy from a state-run agricultural fund. The minister clarified that he had declared his agricultural land holdings in his election affidavits and that the subsidy was part of a legitimate government scheme aimed at supporting farmers.
Political analysts note that the issue highlights the intersection of agrarian benefits and political influence. The ruling party has dismissed the allegations, accusing Gehlot of making baseless claims for political gain. The matter is likely to be raised in the next Parliament session.
No official statement has been issued by the ministry concerned, and the central government has not announced any inquiry into the matter. The opposition, however, plans to continue pressing for accountability.
