Maharashtra: Speculation over the Congress-led Joint Progressive Alliance (UPA) president has intensified. There are discussions in the political circles of the country that Sonia Gandhi can resign from the post and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar can be made a new president. While talking about Sharad Pawar, his party has categorically rejected these speculations. Recently, when asked by Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut, he said, "If Sharad Pawar Sir becomes the chairperson of UPA, we will be happy, but I hear that he himself has rejected it. If this kind of proposal comes officially, we will support it." Raut also said, "The Congress is now weak, so the opposition needs to unite and strengthen the UPA. ' Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut had also interacted last Thursday. During that, he said, "Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar has all the qualities to lead the country. He as a lot of experience and he has knowledge of the issues of the country and he knows the pulse of the people. He has the full ability to lead the nation. Pawar will celebrate his 80 birthday on December 12 and Sanjay Raut has already greeted him. Also Read- Kerala local body elections 2nd phase, Fronts to advance in Palakkad Tamil Nadu CM lays foundation for new veterinary college and research centre in Theni district Farmers' protest continues for 16th day, announces traffic jam on December 12