I can retire from Rajya Sabha if it's in Cong's interest: Arjun

Apparently sulking over Congress' refusal to nominate his children for Lok Sabha poll, HRD Minister Arjun Singh said he can retire from Rajya Sabha earlier than his term if it is in the interest of the party and the nation.

Apparently sulking over Congress' refusal to nominate his children for Lok Sabha poll, HRD Minister Arjun Singh on Sunday said he can retire from Rajya Sabha earlier than his term if it is in the interest of the party and the nation.

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"I have never shirked responsibility nor have I canvassed for it. I have got another three years in the Rajya Sabha. I have not decided to retire early but if it is required in the interest of the nation and the party, I can retire also. I would have no hesitation or regret," the 79-year-old leader told reporters here.

"I am already out of the way," he said in reply to a question on whether seniors like him should give way to youth as reflected in this election.

Asked whether he was keen on becoming a union cabinet minister again, Singh said "I am not keen. It all depends on the Prime Minister and the Congress president."

"You see, what one believes hardly matters. The party and the bigger polity have to take a decision at the appropriate time," he said on whether his ministerial innings are over.