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Sharad Pawar, 82, had on Tuesday said he is stepping down as chief of the NCP. (PTI File Photo)
NCP leader Sharad Pawar withdraw his resignation stating he accepts the party’s decision
Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar on Friday said he is withdrawing his decision to resign as party chief and said he will work for NCP with “renewed vigour.”
Addressing a press conference the NCP supremo said, “I cannot disrespect the feelings of my party leaders. They have taken a decision and I trust them. I respect and accept their decision. Therefore, I am withdrawing my decision to resign and taking up the responsibility again.”
The announcement came after a committee set up to choose the new NCP chief rejected Pawar’s decision to step down. Pawar himself had set up the committee, including Ajit Pawar, Supriya Sule, former Union minister Parful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal after he announced earlier this week that he would be resigning as NCP chief.
Several NCP workers wearing caps with the message “I am with saheb” also demanded that Pawar reconsider his decision as the committee meeting took place earlier in the day.
The 82-year-old leader, who was welcomed with flowers by the party workers at the presser, told reporters, “On May 2, I expressed my desire to retire from the position of National President of the party, as I wanted to be free from responsibilities at this age.”
“However, after seeing the disappointment of party workers and office bearers, I decided to reconsider my decision. They have bestowed immense love on me, and I could not disappoint them,” he said.
The senior leader said, “The committee requested me to retake the responsibility of National President, and after careful consideration, I have decided to do so. I respect and accept the decision made by party leaders and workers.”
“There has to be a succession plan in NCP,” Pawar said, adding he will focus on making organisational changes in the party.
“Although I am accepting this responsibility, I believe that there should be someone to lead the party after me. Nevertheless, I am overwhelmed with the love and support shown to me by everyone,” he added.
Senior NCP leader Praful Patel had earlier said Pawar had sought more time to reconsider his decision to step down as party chief.
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