Former Indian cricketer and BJP MP from Delhi, Gautam Gambhir, has expressed his request to party president JP Nadda to relieve him from his political responsibilities. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gambhir shared this decision, stating his intention to concentrate on upcoming cricket engagements.
“I have requested Hon’ble Party President JP Nadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble HM Amit Shah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!” he wrote.
Since joining the BJP in 2019, Gambhir has emerged as a prominent figure within the party. He secured victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi constituency by a significant margin of about 6,95,109 votes.
This decision by Gambhir comes ahead of the anticipated 2024 Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April-May this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed optimism about the NDA securing over 400 seats, with the BJP expected to win at least 370 seats.
Criticism was directed at Gambhir in the past for fulfilling his cricket commitments despite holding a position as an MP. He is set to mentor the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), a team he led from 2011 to 2017, clinching two titles in 2012 and 2014.
Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has nominated Kuldeep Kumar for the East Delhi seat in the upcoming polls. AAP and Congress have agreed to a 4-3 seat-sharing arrangement for Delhi.
