Have committed no wrong, will continue to serve my party as a committed worker: Nitin Gadkari

New Delhi: In a sudden move that propelled 62-year-old Rajnath Singh to the post of main Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party's president, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) favourite Nitin Gadkari backed away from the elections citing allegations of dubious funding he has been facing, related to his company Purti Group.

"I do not wish that this should in any way adversely affect the interest of the BJP," Gadkari, who had been the frontrunner in the race for party's presidentship, said Tuesday night. "I have, therefore, decided not to seek a second term as the president of the BJP," Gadkari, who took over the party's reins in December 2009, said.

This came hours after speculations arose of senior leader Yashwant Sinha joining the fray. However, later sources said the Hazaribagh MP was unlikely to contest for the post.

Will continue to serve party as committed worker: Gadkari

Gadkari backed away from the elections citing allegations of dubious funding he has been facing related to his company Purti Group.

55-year-old Gadkari clarified his stand on the dubious funding of Purti Group saying, "I have committed no wrong or any impropriety either directly or indirectly. I shall continue to serve my party as a committed worker. I have conveyed my decision to my colleagues."

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