Bharatiya Janata Party MP Gautam Gambhir has made a surprising announcement to step back from active politics. The former cricketer, who represented East Delhi, took to Twitter to inform his followers and supporters of his decision. He mentioned his intention to prioritize his cricket responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of refocusing on the sport he had a deep passion for prior to his political career.
“I have asked Hon’ble Party President JP Nadda ji to release me from my political obligations so that I can concentrate on my upcoming cricket commitments. I am grateful to Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi for allowing me the chance to serve the people. Jai Hind,” Mr Gambhir stated.
Gambhir’s decision to step away from politics coincides with speculation that he may not receive a nomination for the upcoming 2024 elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to soon announce its initial list of candidates, which will feature prominent figures such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. The party recently held extensive meetings in Delhi, including one led by the Prime Minister himself at his residence, lasting from 11 pm on Thursday until 4 am on Friday.
Gambhir, who joined the BJP in March 2019, has since become a prominent figure within the party in Delhi. He achieved a significant victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, securing the East Delhi seat with a substantial margin of 6,95,109 votes.
It is worth noting that Mr. Gambhir will be preoccupied in the upcoming months due to his commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He currently serves as the mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), a team he previously captained to two IPL titles.
Furthermore, Gambhir played a pivotal role in the Indian cricket team’s triumphs in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007 and ICC Cricket World Cup 2011. Throughout his career, he amassed 10,324 runs in 242 matches for India, maintaining an average of 38.95, with 20 centuries and 63 half-centuries.