Sharad Pawar announced on Tuesday that he will step down as president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and will not run in future elections.
“I have three years left in the Rajya Sabha.” The NCP leader, who founded the organization in 1999, announced at the launch of the second edition of his autobiography, “Lok Maze Sangati,” that he would no longer run for elected positions. “My political career began on May 1, 1960.” We observed May Day yesterday. After such a long political career, one must consider where to end it. It is forbidden to be greedy.”
Sharad Pawar suggested that a committee comprised of senior NCP leaders be formed to determine the next steps.Â
Following his announcement, several NCP leaders and members stood up and chanted slogans urging the NCP supremo to reconsider his choice. “We disagree with Saheb’s judgment. We implore you to take it back. Until you take action, we won’t move, an NCP leader was overheard saying.
Pawar’s announcement comes weeks after speculation about his nephew, Ajit Pawar, defecting to the BJP-led ruling alliance in Maharashtra sparked a firestorm within the party.
Meanwhile, Ajit stated that while his uncle believed the party needed new leadership, the new leader will work “under the guidance of Sharad Pawar.” “I just spoke with Kaki (Sharad Pawar’s wife).” She informed me that he will not reconsider his decision…”Ultimately, the new president will report to Sharad Pawar,” Ajit told NCP leaders.
“He had mentioned changing leadership in the past, but we had no idea he was talking about himself,” he added. “Let’s not get too emotional. What’s the point of repeating ourselves when we all thrived under Pawar Saheb? Whoever becomes the new president will report to Saheb. Why are you concerned about the new president? This was bound to happen at some point.”
NCP leader Praful Patel expressed shock at the announcement by Sharad Pawar and said party leaders had asked him with “folded hands” to change his decision.
“He will not react immediately, but I can assure you that he is as connected to you all as anything else.” On behalf of everyone, I request that he withdraw the decision. Sharad Pawar ji’s leadership is required for the state and the country. As a result, we ask him on behalf of everyone to inform us of his decision as soon as possible,” he said.
An emotional Jayant Patil, state NCP chief, stated that the party would be unable to function without him. “His continued leadership is critical not only for the state but also for the country.” This sudden decision cannot be made; he has no right to make such a decision,” he sobbed.
“There is no doubt that we will accept your decision today.” You have always worked for people from all walks of life. It is past time for opposition unity to be formed at the center. It is critical for the growth of the NCP at the state level that you remain our chief. “You must withdraw your resignation,” said NCP MLA Dilip Walse-Patil.
Sharad Pawar is widely regarded as the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA)’s architect. Sanjay Shirsat, the spokesperson for the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, responded to the news, saying, “The decision taken by Sharad Pawar saheb is shocking for us as well.” We also believe that he should not retire. We are aware that there are age restrictions, but his presence is also very important. He should also understand the emotions of the NCP cadre, and we urge him to reconsider his decision to retire.”
