JAIPUR: In a major show of strength, the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Sports Cell organized a historic “Gherao” (encirclement) of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly on February 17, 2026. Led by State President Amin Pathan, the demonstration saw an influx of thousands of workers, sportspersons, and youth raising their voices against the state government.
Key Demands and Allegations
The protest, centered around the slogan “Save MGNREGA, Save Sports, Drug-Free Rajasthan,” highlighted several critical issues:
Neglect of Athletes:
The Congress party accused the current government of ignoring the welfare of sportspersons and failing to provide promised job opportunities.
MGNREGA Rights:
Protesters demanded the protection and strengthening of the MGNREGA scheme to support rural laborers.
Social Issues:
A primary focus was the call for a “Nasha Mukt Rajasthan” (Drug-Free Rajasthan) to tackle the rising substance abuse among the state’s youth.
High-Profile Support
The movement received significant backing from the party’s top brass. Senior leaders, including Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Chief Govind Singh Dotasra and Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully, joined Amin Pathan on the front lines, solidifying the party’s unified stance against the government’s policies.
Police Action
As the massive crowd attempted to march toward the Assembly, tensions escalated. To prevent the protesters from breaching the barricades, the police used water cannons to disperse the gathering. Despite the police action, the Congress leadership maintained that they would continue to fight for the rights of the youth and the working class.
Speaking at the event, Amin Pathan stated that the state’s sportspersons feel betrayed by the lack of infrastructure and employment, vowing that this protest is just the beginning of a statewide movement.
