NAGPUR — Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s office has issued a formal clarification regarding his recent public statements about stepping back from heavy workloads, affirming that his comments were non-political and strictly pertained to the governance of a social trust.
The statement comes after television channels and social media users speculated that the 69-year-old leader was hinting at a political retirement or organizational transition within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Context of the Statement
Addressing a gathering in Nagpur on Sunday, Gadkari reflected on his three-decade career in public life, noting the physical toll of continuous service and advocating for younger leaders to take on greater roles.
According to his official secretarial statement, the remarks were made specifically in relation to the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust, an organization founded by Gadkari that operates Ekal Vidyalayas (single-teacher schools) in remote tribal regions:
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Trust Leadership Transition: Gadkari noted that he could no longer manage the same operational load as before and stressed that the younger generation should be given larger administrative responsibilities within the trust.
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Media Misrepresentation: His office emphasized that media outlets had misinterpreted an internal organizational speech regarding social work as a political commentary on his ministerial or party career.
“Nitin Gadkariji’s statement had nothing to do with politics. He was speaking specifically about the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust… His remarks were clearly related to the functioning and future leadership of the Trust,” the official clarification read.
Emphasis on Personal Health and Discipline
During the Nagpur address, the Union Minister also discussed personal lifestyle changes adopted following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contrasting his early political years—marked by relentless schedules, irregular eating, and constant travel—with his current routine, Gadkari highlighted his daily practice of yoga and a renewed focus on personal well-being.
He urged individuals in public service to prioritize physical health, remarking: “What is the use of power and position if health is not good?”
