Union minister Nitin Gadkari’s remarks about giving the “new generation” a chance have triggered fresh speculation about his retirement, amid reports of a possible Union Cabinet expansion and changes in ministerial portfolios.
Gadkari’s office later clarified that the remarks were specifically about the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust, which runs Ekal Vidyalayas in tribal areas, and had no political context. “His remarks were clearly related to the functioning and future leadership of the Trust. However, some television channels are presenting the statement as a political remark, taking it out of its actual context,” the office said. Gadkari had been speaking about the trust’s journey and said he would take a back seat in its social activities to give the younger generation greater responsibility.
