Summary:
Rahul Gandhi is "keen on keeping the doors open for Sachin Pilot", sources in the Congress told NDTV on Wednesday, hours after the rebel leader declared that he was not joining the BJP and rumors were spread to "malign him with the Gandhis".
The party has also reined in Ashok Gehlot, asking him to tone down his statements against his former deputy, the sources said.
The admonition, though, came much after Mr Gehlot claimed he had proof of Mr Pilot`s horse trading with the BJP.
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New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi is "keen on keeping the doors open for Sachin Pilot", sources in the Congress told NDTV on Wednesday, hours after the rebel leader declared that he was not joining the BJP and rumors were spread to "malign him with the Gandhis".
The party has also reined in Ashok Gehlot, asking him to tone down his statements against his former deputy, the sources said.
The admonition, though, came much after Mr Gehlot claimed he had proof of Mr Pilot`s horse trading with the BJP.
Mr Gandhi has had no direct contact with Mr Pilot yet, though he has spoken to him through emissaries once over the weekend, Congress sources said.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had touched base with him thrice.
Much now depends on Mr Pilot.
But the party -- challenged the rebel leader to stop fraternizing with the BJP and give up the hospitality of a BJP-ruled state -- has no indication about his next move, sources said.