After submitting his resignation, Jagtap clarified his position through a press conference, which further fuelled discussions about his possible entry into the Congress.
Sources say Jagtap is in touch with senior Congress leaders, and consultations with local office-bearers are ongoing before a final decision is taken. There is also talk of the Congress, Sharad Pawar-led NCP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP contesting the civic elections together in Pune, making Jagtap’s next move politically significant. While some leaders from the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) were also reportedly in contact with him.
Speaking about his resignation after 27 years in the party, Jagtap said he entered social and political life not for positions, but to advance progressive ideology. He added that this commitment remains unchanged and that his social and political journey would continue in the same direction. He thanked party workers who stood by him and pledged to continue the struggle with them.
Jagtap also clarified that he has not quit politics. “I am not someone who is afraid of defeat. I lost the Assembly election, but my respect for the people remains intact,” he said. He confirmed that he has resigned as city president and party member after discussions with Supriya Sule and state president Shashikant Shinde, and that he will contest the upcoming corporator election.
Thanking Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar and Supriya Sule, Jagtap said he got the opportunity to work under their guidance and served citizens of the Hadapsar–Wanowrie area by working on the ground. Coming from a non-political background, he said resigning from the post of city president and party membership was a difficult but principled decision.
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