An NCP worker from Pune wrote a letter in blood, appealing to Pawar to withdraw his decision and not make him and several other party workers "orphan". Pic/PTI
Pawar was present at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre in Mumbai where the NCP leaders held the discussion informally, but he did not attend the meet.
Before the discussion, Bhujbal told reporters he was of the view that Supriya Sule was ideal for a "national role" as she has a good grasp of issues.
"She has been doing well as a parliamentarian. So there will be no problem on deciding the new (NCP) president. Ajit Pawar should handle the responsibility of the state (Maharashtra). The division of work is already there," he said. Pic/Atul Kamble
Pawar (82) on Tuesday dropped a bombshell by saying he is stepping down as chief of the NCP which he founded and helmed since 1999, but not retiring from public life. Pic/Atul Kamble
The announcement, made at an event, stumped leaders and workers of the 24-year-old party, and many were seen crying and pleading with the Maratha strongman to reconsider his decision.
Ajit Pawar later on Tuesday announced his uncle will need two to three days to "think over" his decision. Pic/Shadab Khan
Bhujbal on Wednesday said Pawar's announcement to step down as the NCP chief came as a shock to everyone.
"We will persuade him to withdraw his decision," he said.
After the meeting of NCP leaders, Bhujbal said there was no meeting as such of a committee, formed by Sharad Pawar to decide on his successor. Pic/Shadab Khan
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