Jayant Patil indicates resignation as NCP(SP) Maharashtra chief

NCP (SP) Chief Sharad Pawar and NCP President Jayant Patil. File | Photo Credit: The Hindu

In a dramatic turn at the Nationalist Congress Party (SP)‘s 26th foundation day celebrations, Maharashtra unit chief Jayant Patil signalled his intention to step down from the post, drawing strong emotional reactions from party workers who vocally opposed his decision.  

The announcement came during an event at Pune’s Balgandharva Auditorium, where party patriarch and former Union Minister Sharad Pawar was present on the dais. “Pawar Saheb gave me immense opportunities and I’ve carried this responsibility for seven years. Now, the party must make way for new leadership,” Mr. Patil stated, his voice trembling with emotion as workers shouted appeals for him to reconsider.  

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Attempting to pacify the crowd, Mr. Patil added, “This is Pawar Saheb’s party, and the final decision rests with him. Our journey is long, and I’m grateful for everyone’s support.” Mr. Pawar, observing quietly, did not immediately comment on the development.  

Earlier in the day, Mr. Pawar hoisted the party flag at the Pune headquarters. The party’s working president Supriya Sule, in a heartfelt social media post, celebrated the party’s legacy of advocating for marginalised communities.  

“From the seeds of nationalist thought planted by Pawar Saheb, a mighty banyan tree has grown over 26 years,” Ms. Sule wrote on X. She reiterated the party’s commitment to Yashwantrao Chavan’s principle of prioritizing social service over politics, vowing to continue fighting for farmers, laborers, women and youth.  

Published - June 11, 2025 10:32 am IST