The Mystery Behind NCP President Sharad Pawar’s Resignation
The Announcement
Pawar made the announcement of his resignation during the release of his autobiography, ‘Lok Majhe Sangati - Political Autobiography’, in Mumbai. He said he was resigning from the post of the national president of NCP and announced a committee comprising top leaders like Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, K.K. Sharma, P.C. Chacko, Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Supriya Sule, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil, Anil Deshmukh, Rajesh Tope, Dr. Jitendra Awhad, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, and Jaydev Gaikwad. He said the committee would decide on the new party president’s selection.
Pawar also clarified that he was not retiring from public life and would continue to work for the people and the party. He said he would be available to all as usual and would attend public events and meetings in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Baramati or any other part of India. He said he wanted to give more space and responsibility to the younger generation and groom them for leadership roles.
The Reaction
Pawar’s announcement left many in tears and disbelief. His nephew and party leader Ajit Pawar said that Pawar had agreed to “rethink” his decision after being persuaded by the party workers and leaders3. State NCP President Jayant Patil broke down and said the decision was "not acceptable". Other senior leaders like Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil Narhari Zirwal, and many more made fervent appeals and “begged” with moist eyes to their supremo to retract. Many others even threatened to resign from their posts in protest.
NCP leader Jitendra Awhad said he and all office bearers of Thane party unit had resigned after Pawar’s announcement45. He said Pawar had not taken them into confidence and had taken his decision unilaterally. He said Pawar had taught them that decisions should be taken democratically and after consulting everyone45.
The Implications
Pawar’s resignation has raised many questions about the future of the NCP and its role in Maharashtra politics. Pawar is widely regarded as one of the most astute and influential politicians in India, who has played a key role in shaping several governments at the state and central level. He is also credited with forming the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance with the Shiv Sena and the Congress in 2019, after breaking away from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Pawar’s resignation could create a leadership vacuum in the NCP and affect its stability and unity. It could also have an impact on the MVA alliance, which is already facing some internal differences over various issues. Pawar’s resignation could also embolden the BJP, which is eyeing a comeback in Maharashtra by exploiting the cracks in the MVA.
However, some analysts believe that Pawar’s resignation could be a strategic move to prepare his daughter Supriya Sule for taking over the reins of the party. Sule is currently a Lok Sabha MP from Baramati and is seen as Pawar’s heir apparent. She is also popular among the party workers and leaders and has a good rapport with other alliance partners. Some reports suggest that Sule could be proposed for a big role in the party at its upcoming national convention.
The Conclusion
Sharad Pawar’s resignation as NCP president has sent shockwaves across the political spectrum and has left many wondering about his motives and the implications of his decision. Pawar, who has been a towering figure in Indian politics for over five decades, said he wanted to make way for the younger generation and to focus on his public life. However, his announcement was met with tears, disbelief, and protests from his loyal supporters and party leaders, who urged him to reconsider his move. Pawar’s resignation could also have a significant impact on the future of the NCP and its alliance with the Shiv Sena and the Congress in Maharashtra, which is facing several challenges from the BJP. On the other hand, Pawar’s resignation could also be a masterstroke to pave the way for his daughter Supriya Sule to take over the party leadership and to consolidate his legacy. Whether Pawar will stick to his decision or withdraw it remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Pawar has once again proved that he is a mystery man who can surprise everyone with his unpredictable moves.
