I brought Fadnavis into politics: Gadkari
Union Minister for Transport Nitin Gadkari addressed a Gor Banjara rally at Nagpur, where he narrated to the crowd the political journey of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, claiming it was not dynasty politics.
“Fadnavis's father was in politics, but he did not induct his son, it was some of us, including me, who brought him into politics,” said Gadkari.
Gadkari said he had worked under the leadership of Fadnavis's father. “However, Fadnavis's parents at no point asked me to give their son a ticket,” said Gadkari. When Fadnavis's father was unwell, it was then, Gadkari had appealed to the senior Fadnavis to allow his son to contest civic polls. “The father said he had no problems, but suggested I should consult Devendra and his mother,” said Gadkari.
Gadkari also emphasised, he and Fadnavis were far-removed from dynasty politics. “Fadnavis's daughter is too young and my family members have no desire to enter politics,” said Gadkari. He added,”This selection was on merit only. Moreover, the reason for giving a ticket is based on the popularity of the leader.”
Interestingly, what Gadkari did not tell the crowd was about Fadnavis's aunt, Shobha Fadnavis, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and currently, a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. She is from Vidarbha, Mul constituency, Chandrapur district.