Union Minister Nitin Gadkari shared a significant moment from his political career, revealing that a political leader once offered to support him in a potential bid for the Prime Minister’s post. Speaking at a journalism awards function, Gadkari recalled the conversation but chose not to name the person involved. "That person said, 'If you are going to become prime minister, we will support you.' But I told them, 'Why should I take your support? Becoming Prime Minister is not my goal.'"

Gadkari, a senior BJP leader, emphasized that his focus remains on loyalty to his convictions and his organization. "I am not willing to compromise for any post because my convictions are paramount," he stated.

During his speech, Gadkari highlighted the need for ethics in both journalism and politics. He shared an anecdote about his respect for A B Bardhan, a prominent politician from Nagpur and Vidarbha, despite Bardhan’s opposition to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). "Honest opposition should be respected," Gadkari said, adding that democracy thrives when all four pillars—judiciary, executive, legislature, and media—operate with integrity.

Gadkari expressed concern that both politics and journalism lack figures as principled as Bardhan today. He underscored the importance of maintaining ethical standards to ensure the success of democracy.