Sharad Pawar Thanks Maharashtra After Unopposed Rajya Sabha Re-Election

Mumbai, March 2026 : Veteran leader Sharad Pawar, president of Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), on Saturday expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Maharashtra after being re-elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha.

In a letter shared publicly, Pawar thanked citizens, supporters and political allies for their continued trust and support. The message was posted on the social media platform X by his grandnephew and MLA Rohit Pawar.

The veteran politician said he chose to communicate through a written message as doctors have advised him to take rest due to ongoing health concerns. Because of this, he explained, he is currently unable to meet supporters and well-wishers in person.

Pawar’s re-election follows weeks of speculation in political circles about whether he would seek another term in Parliament, particularly in light of his health condition. Eventually, leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) finalised his candidature for the Rajya Sabha seat.

With Pawar’s consent, the nomination papers were submitted from his residence, paving the way for his unopposed election to the Upper House of Parliament.

In the letter, Pawar reflected on his long political journey, which began more than five decades ago. He recalled that he first entered public office after being elected to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in 1967.

“Since first being elected to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in 1967, this political journey has continued without pause because of the faith the people have placed in me,” Pawar wrote.

Over the years, he has held several key political positions in both the state and the central government. Pawar served as Chief Minister of Maharashtra multiple times and also held important roles such as minister and Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly.

At the national level, he served as Defence Minister in the Government of India and later as Union Agriculture Minister for a decade, during which he oversaw major agricultural initiatives and policies affecting farmers across the country.

Pawar said that whatever development work he was able to undertake for Maharashtra and the nation was made possible by the strong backing and confidence of the people.

He expressed special thanks to the citizens of Maharashtra as well as allied parties for giving him another opportunity to serve through a fresh six-year term in the Rajya Sabha.

While acknowledging that doctors have advised him to limit direct interaction for now, Pawar emphasised that his emotional bond with the people of the state remains strong.

“The love, trust and support given by Maharashtra are the true sources of energy in my life,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to continue working honestly to meet public expectations.

Despite being one of the most senior figures in Indian politics today, Pawar’s message reflected his continuing dedication to public service, signalling that he remains committed to political life and the responsibilities entrusted to him by the people.