Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who transitioned into politics and secured a victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the East Delhi Lok Sabha seat in 2019, is contemplating stepping away from seeking re-election. Gambhir recently reached out to BJP President JP Nadda, expressing his desire to be relieved of his political responsibilities. This decision, he explained, stems from his upcoming cricket commitments, which he wishes to prioritize.
Gambhir’s journey into politics began when he retired from cricket in 2018. He swiftly joined the BJP and successfully contested against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi in the 2019 general elections. However, his recent request to step back from political duties has fueled speculation that the BJP might be considering changes in its candidate lineup for the upcoming elections in the national capital.
The BJP’s dominance in Delhi’s political landscape has been evident, having secured all seven seats in both the 2014 and 2019 general elections. However, with Gambhir’s potential withdrawal from the race, there’s anticipation of shifts within the party’s strategy for the forthcoming polls.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Gambhir expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the opportunity to serve the people. He reiterated his commitment to the nation with a fervent “Jai Hind!”
This development comes amidst the backdrop of the AAP’s announcement of fielding sitting Kondli MLA Kuldeep Kumar Monu from the East Delhi seat. The decision to nominate Kuldeep Kumar, who belongs to the Scheduled Caste, for an unreserved constituency has been praised by Delhi Chief Minister and AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal as a “revolutionary” move.
As the political landscape in Delhi takes shape for the 2024 elections, the AAP has formed an alliance with the Congress. Under this alliance, the AAP will contest four seats, while the Congress will field candidates in three Lok Sabha constituencies in Delhi.
Criticism has previously been directed at Gambhir for his engagement in cricket activities despite his role as a Member of Parliament (MP). Nonetheless, Gambhir is set to take on a new role as a mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), a team he led to victory in the Indian Premier League, clinching titles in 2012 and 2014.
As the political arena in Delhi undergoes transformations and preparations for the upcoming elections intensify, Gambhir’s decision to potentially step back from the fray marks a significant development in the region’s political landscape.
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