In a stunning revelation at a ‘Swabhiman’ poll rally in Shirsuphal village, Nationalist Congress Party-Samajwadi Party (NCP-SP) President Sharad Pawar hinted that he might be ready to retire from electoral politics. As he approaches his 84th birthday next month, Pawar’s comments came as a shock to supporters and attendees alike, who expressed their discontent through protests.
Pawar, who has dedicated 57 years to politics, stated, “I still have another one-and-a-half years left in the Rajya Sabha… Need to think about whether I should continue further. I don’t want to contest any more elections now.” His announcement comes during a pivotal time as his grand-nephew, Yugendra S. Pawar, prepares to contest against his uncle, Ajit A. Pawar, the current Nationalist Congress Party President and Deputy Chief Minister, in the highly competitive Baramati Assembly constituency for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20.
The unexpected news left many on stage visibly shocked, while supporters in the crowd waved their arms in protest, signaling their desire for the seasoned politician to continue his legacy. Reflecting on his long career, Pawar expressed gratitude to the people of Baramati, who have elected him to the Assembly and Lok Sabha a record 14 times. He has served as Chief Minister four times and held various Union Minister roles, contributing significantly to regional and national politics.
Pawar acknowledged his political lineage, mentioning the support his family members, including his daughter Supriya Sule-Pawar and cousin Ajit A. Pawar, have received from the Baramati constituency. “I worked here for 25 years and later handed over to Ajit A. Pawar. I have no grudge against him; he led the Baramati seat for nearly 30 years,” he remarked, indicating his wish to pave the way for new leadership.
Emphasizing the importance of preparing a new generation for political responsibility, he added, “It is time for me to prepare a young, dynamic leadership which can take over for the next three decades.” Pawar introduced Yugendra S. Pawar as a candidate with this vision in mind, stating, “I am not seeking your votes… You have always been magnanimous with all the Pawars in this. But we have to look ahead now at the future.”
Pawar’s hints of retirement may provide a sense of relief for Ajit Pawar, who has long urged his uncle to step back and mentor the next generation. The veteran leader imparted wisdom to younger politicians, asserting that politics should not solely revolve around winning elections and acquiring power but rather be a means to serve the public. He reflected on his contributions, stating, “Whenever you elected me, I always thought of giving something or the other for the betterment of the people.”
With a legacy spanning over six decades in public service, Sharad Pawar’s potential departure from active politics marks a significant moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape, as he prepares to hand over the reins to a new generation.