After the veteran leader and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar announced his resignation from the post of the party chief, Ajit Pawar said that the 82-year-old will "abide by the decision of the NCP committee". At the launch event of a revised version of Sharad Pawar's autobiography in Mumbai on Tuesday, he announced his decision to step down from the post of National President of the Nationalist Congress Party, the political outfit he founded and helmed since 1999.
Shortly after the announcement made by Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar stated former Maharashtra Chief Minister took the decision considering his age.
"Pawar Saheb himself had said about the necessity of change in guard a few days back. We should see his decision in the light of his age and health also. Everyone has to take a decision according to time, Pawar Saheb has taken a decision and he won't take it back," NCP leader Ajit Pawar said.
While NCP president Jayant Patil and party leader Jitendra Awhad broke down after Pawar’s decision, party MP Praful Pawar beseeched him to withdraw his decision. Patel said Pawar did not take anyone into confidence before announcing his resignation.
Pawar said his political journey began on May 1, 1960, and has continued unabated for the past 63 years, having served Maharashtra and India in various capacities during this period.
“I have three years left of Rajya Sabha membership in Parliament, during which I will focus on issues related to Maharashtra and India, with a caveat of not taking any responsibility. After a long period of public life from May 1, 1960, to May 1, 2023, it is necessary to take a step back. Hence, I have decided to step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party,” Pawar said.