Nagpur, India:  Union Minister Nitin Gadkari disclosed on Saturday that a senior opposition leader approached him with an offer to support him as a prime ministerial candidate before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Gadkari, however, firmly declined the offer, citing his commitment to his principles and loyalty to his party.

Speaking at a journalism awards event in Nagpur, Gadkari said, "Becoming Prime Minister is not my goal in life. I asked the opposition leader, why should you support me, and why should I accept your support? An individual’s conviction is the foundation of Indian democracy."

Though Gadkari did not name the opposition leader, it is believed that members of the INDI-Alliance bloc have spoken highly of him. His comments confirm earlier speculation that his name was being considered for the prime ministerial role.

In a previous interview, Gadkari had already clarified that he was not interested in the PM's post and remained dedicated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ideology.

During his address, Gadkari also encouraged journalists to remain true to their convictions and pass on that commitment to future generations. He acknowledged the financial struggles journalists often face despite their hard work and contribution to society.