I Wanted to Quit Earlier, Modi Asked Me to Stay, Says Najeeb Jung

Reports said Jung’s resignation has not been accepted.

Najeeb Jung. (Photo: IANS)

A day after handing in his surprise resignation, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was briefed about the situation. Jung revealed that he had offered to quit twice earlier but was told by the Prime Minister to carry on.

Najeeb Jung leaving the Prime Minister’s Office. (Photo: ANI)

Dismissing speculation that he was under pressure to exit, Jung told NDTV channel that there was no politics behind his sudden move.

I had offered to resign as I had been appointed by the previous UPA government but the Prime Minister asked me to carry on. After three years, I requested the PM to relieve me but he asked me to carry on. After three-and-a-half years, I requested the Prime Minister again on Tuesday that I would like to resign on personal grounds but he said carry on.

Jung said this time he insisted on resigning – on personal grounds.

Reports say Jung's resignation has not been accepted, though CNN-News18 quoted Ministry of Home Affairs sources as saying that the President will likely accept the resignation.

Former Union home secretary Anil Baijal is reportedly the front-runner to replace Jung.

(With inputs from PTI.)