New Delhi, August 25: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s office on Tuesday clarified that his recent remarks about being unable to work as much as before were related to the functioning of a social organisation he founded and had no connection with politics or his political future.
Gadkari had sparked speculation after speaking at an event in Nagpur about his 30 years in public life. He said he could no longer take on as much work as he had earlier and suggested that the younger generation should be given greater responsibility. The comments quickly triggered speculation that the senior BJP leader could be considering stepping back from active politics.
However, his office said the remarks were being presented without their actual context. According to the clarification, Gadkari was specifically referring to the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust, an organisation established by him that runs Ekal Vidyalayas in tribal areas.
“Gadkariji’s statement had nothing to do with politics,” his office said, stressing that the minister was discussing the future functioning and leadership of the trust. He was referring to the need to give younger people an opportunity to take on greater responsibilities, the statement said.
The clarification came amid heightened political discussion over a possible Cabinet reshuffle. Gadkari, one of the senior members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Cabinet, has remained a prominent figure in the BJP and is currently serving as the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways.
His original remarks had nevertheless generated considerable attention because of their timing. Political speculation has intensified amid reports of organisational and possible ministerial changes, leading some commentators to interpret his comments as a possible indication that he was preparing to reduce his political responsibilities.
Gadkari has been active in public life for around three decades and has held important political and ministerial positions during his career. As road transport minister, he has been closely associated with the expansion of highways and expressways across the country.
The minister has also recently faced criticism over issues including ethanol-blended petrol, with opposition parties and some consumers questioning aspects of the policy.
His office, however, made clear that Tuesday’s controversy should not be interpreted as a political announcement. It said the comments were solely about the trust and its future leadership.
The clarification has sought to put an end to speculation that Gadkari’s remarks represented a decision to retire or step away from politics.
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