Rajasthan political crisis: In surprise move, Pilot speaks to Chidambaram

Another senior leader said the party’s leaders, who were in talks with Pilot, have assured him of an “honourable return” if he decides to come back.

While the Pilot camp approached the High Court, Congress sources said the party can consider giving more time to the rebels.

“The party’s counsel may not object if the Pilot camp sought deferral of the proceedings by two-three days. These are processes, which we will have to follow. But if the MLAs return, the disqualification proceedings will be withdrawn..we have to try and save the Gehlot government,” a senior leader said.

Also Read | Gehlot slams the door, but leadership keeps a window open for Pilot

The notice issued to the MLAs by the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat makes it clear that they would have to send their written remarks and submissions within three days — and that the disqualification petition will be brought on Friday afternoon before the Speaker for appropriate action.

The notice states that if the MLAs don’t send their remarks or submissions, it will affect the hearing and disposal of the petition.

Express Cartoon by EP Unny.

Meanwhile, Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Abhishek Singhvi, who is representing the party in the High Court, told The Indian Express that the petition by the MLAs against the Speaker’s disqualification proceedings is not maintainable at the show cause stage.

Explained: What now in Rajasthan? After notice to Congress rebels, roles of Speaker and Governor

“The Constitutional challenge, which they have added by amendment, was decided way back in 1992. So they are repeating an old challenge. Their argument is that the Tenth schedule is unconstitutional. That was held to be Constitutional in 1992,” he said.