NCP Leader Jayant Patil Hints at Resignation Amid Party Changes
Jayant Patil's Resignation Signals New Directions for NCP
On Tuesday, Jayant Patil, the president of the Maharashtra unit of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), suggested he might resign from his position in the presence of party chief Sharad Pawar. This announcement comes amidst speculation regarding a potential merger between two factions of the NCP and upcoming local body elections.
During a celebration marking the 26th anniversary of the NCP at Pune's Bal Gandharva Auditorium, Patil emphasized the importance of providing opportunities to new faces within the party. Sharad Pawar, the founder of the NCP, was also present on stage.
Patil remarked, 'Pawar has given me numerous opportunities. I was entrusted with responsibilities for seven years, but it is now crucial for the party to welcome new faces.' His announcement was met with strong opposition from party workers.
In an emotional appeal to his colleagues, Patil urged them to remain calm despite their pleas for him to stay in his role. He concluded his speech by stating, 'This party belongs to Pawar, and he should make the right decision. I thank Pawar and all party workers.'
Addressing the party members, Pawar indicated that discussions among senior leaders would take place before making a decision regarding Patil's proposal. He noted that Patil expressed a desire for new faces to be given a chance, and he urged everyone to support this initiative. Pawar assured that a collective decision would be made in consultation with senior leaders.
He added that it is essential for the party to ensure that new faces are given opportunities in every district when making decisions about Jayant Patil.
In response to the announcement, NCP (SP) legislator Rohit Pawar stated that the leadership of the state unit should be entrusted to someone who has been dedicated to the party for many years and has a humble background.
The NCP, founded by Sharad Pawar, faced a split in July 2023 when his nephew Ajit Pawar joined the then Shiv Sena-BJP coalition government.