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Maharashtra is on the verge of a historic political moment as Sunetra Pawar is expected to take oath as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister, days after the sudden demise of her husband and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) stalwart Ajit Pawar. The move, driven by both political consensus and emotional sentiment within the party, reflects an attempt to ensure stability at a time when the state’s politics is navigating shock, grief, and uncertainty.
The NCP has called a Legislature Party meeting at 2 pm on Saturday to formally elect its new leader in the Assembly. Party leaders indicated that the decision is virtually settled, with Sunetra Pawar emerging as the unanimous choice to step into the role vacated by Ajit Pawar, who died in a tragic air crash near Baramati earlier this week. A low-key swearing-in ceremony is expected to follow shortly after the meeting.
From Personal Tragedy to Political Responsibility
Sunetra Pawar, currently a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, has largely stayed away from frontline politics for decades, despite being part of Maharashtra’s most influential political family. Her elevation marks a rare moment where personal loss and public duty intersect sharply, placing her at the centre of state politics during one of its most emotionally charged phases.
Senior NCP leaders have stressed that the decision was not merely symbolic but aimed at maintaining continuity in governance. “There is absolutely no debate on this. The party is united that Sunetra Pawar should take over the leadership at this critical juncture,” said a senior cabinet minister, underlining the collective sentiment within the party ranks.
Party president Sunil Tatkare confirmed that efforts were being made to formally convey the decision to Sunetra Pawar, acknowledging that she has been engaged in family rituals following her husband’s death. Leaders said the choice reflects both public expectation and internal consensus, with no competing claimants for the post.
Also Read – Know about Ajit Pawar Death: Maharashtra Deputy CM Who Killed in Baramati Plane Crash
Government Signals Support
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicated that the BJP-led government would stand by the NCP’s decision. While emphasising that leadership selection is an internal matter for the ally, he said the ruling coalition would extend full support once the party finalises its choice. Senior NCP leaders, including Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal and Dhananjay Munde, met the Chief Minister earlier on Friday to apprise him of the party’s thinking.
According to party insiders, the urgency to appoint a new Legislature Party leader stems from the need to avoid administrative drift and reassure supporters following Ajit Pawar’s sudden exit from the political stage.
Next Generation and Political Continuity
In a related development, discussions are underway for Ajit Pawar’s elder son, Parth Pawar, to enter Parliament by replacing his mother in the Rajya Sabha. If confirmed, the move would signal a calibrated generational transition within the Pawar family while allowing Sunetra Pawar to focus entirely on her executive responsibilities in the state government.
Reunification Talk Adds Complexity
Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar’s death has also reignited speculation about a possible reunion between the NCP and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP). Some leaders have publicly suggested that unification would honour Ajit Pawar’s unfulfilled wish. However, senior figures within the ruling NCP faction have downplayed these claims, stating that the immediate priority is leadership stability, not political realignment.
Party sources made it clear that any discussion on reunification would require broader consultations, including with coalition partners, and is not currently on the agenda.
A Defining Moment
Sunetra Pawar’s anticipated elevation is not just a personal milestone but a defining moment in Maharashtra’s political history. As she prepares to assume office amid grief and expectation, her leadership will be closely watched—not only as a tribute to Ajit Pawar’s legacy, but also as a test of her ability to navigate power, pressure, and politics at the highest level.
