Sharad Pawar to not contest 2019 LS polls, makes way for grand nephew

Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar has decided not to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The NCP boss announced the decision after meeting senior party members in Pune.

“After holding talks with family, we were of the opinion that next generation members should be given a chance. There is demand from various party leaders and workers for Parth Pawar’s candidature from Maval,” said Sharad Pawar, clearing way for Parth, his grand nephew and son of Ajit Pawar.

"I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest, since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar added.

The NCP chief said that his party would announce the final list of candidates soon.

NCP is contesting the polls in alliance with the Congress in Maharashtra where 48 Lok Sabha seats are at stake.

On Sunday, Election Commission of India had announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11. The final phase of voting will take place on May 19. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.