Mallikarjun Kharge: No One Should Retire from Politics

Senior Congress leader Sushil Kumar Shinde’s memoir, “Five Decades in Politics,” was launched in the capital. At the launch, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mr. Kharge, mentioned that Shinde, at 83 years old, should not consider himself retired and still has a vital role to play in strengthening the Congress party and promoting its ideology. Mr. Kharge emphasized that retirement from politics should not be considered, citing Morarji Desai, who became India’s oldest prime minister at 81 years old.

He clarified that continuing in politics should not be for personal gain but as a way to give back to the country and the party that has nurtured them. The Leader of Opposition praised Shinde for his positive demeanor and noted his ability to work quietly without seeking attention. This quality is contrasted with individuals like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for talk over action.

During the occasion, Shinde expressed gratitude to the Congress party, especially former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, for their guidance and mentorship throughout his career. He hopes that his memoir will inspire others. The book launch was also attended by Rajya Sabha MP and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh.

The memoir is published by HarperCollins India.