CM Ashok Gehlot wary as exit polls boost BJP in Rajasthan

The BJP's Rajasthan unit has received an unexpected shot in the arm following the announcement of exit polls on Sunday, which predicted a comfortable majority for the BJP in Lok Sabha.

The Congress won power in Rajasthan in December last year, claiming 100 seats in the desert state, much ahead of the BJP's 73. However, the difference in voteshare between the two parties was just 0.5 per cent.

And though there doesn't appear to be an immediate threat to the government, Congress is wary of the lure of money and power, which may enter if exit polls' predictions come true. This speculation also gives credence to the theory that relations between CM Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot may not be rosy. Sources said the high command is keeping a close watch on the developments and is concentrating on differences within the party.