Sunetra Pawar: From Reluctant Politician to Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy Chief Minister
In a poignant and historic turn of events, Sunetra Pawar, the widow of late Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has been sworn in as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The oath ceremony took place on January 31, 2026, at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, just three days after Ajit Pawar’s tragic death in a plane crash near Baramati on January 28, 2026.
Sunetra Pawar, 62, took the oath administered by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and other senior leaders. The ceremony was marked by emotional chants of “Ajit Dada amar rahe” from NCP workers and supporters, reflecting the deep sympathy and grief following Ajit Pawar’s demise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations via social media, expressing confidence that Sunetra would carry forward her husband’s vision and contribute to the state’s progress and welfare.
Earlier on the same day, Sunetra was unanimously elected as the leader of the NCP Legislature Party during a meeting at Vidhan Bhavan. Her name was proposed by senior leader Dilip Walse Patil and seconded by Chhagan Bhujbal, with support from other key figures in the party. This swift decision ensured continuity in the Mahayuti alliance government (comprising NCP, BJP, and Shiv Sena), where Ajit Pawar had been a pivotal force.
Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP since 2024, has had a relatively low-profile entry into frontline politics. She contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Baramati but lost to her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, who represents the rival NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction led by Sharad Pawar. Known more for her work in social initiatives, education trusts, environmental efforts, and grassroots development in Baramati—areas closely associated with the Pawar family’s legacy—Sunetra has often been described as a reluctant politician who supported her husband from behind the scenes rather than seeking the public spotlight.
The elevation comes amid significant challenges for both Sunetra and the NCP. Ajit Pawar, a seasoned administrator with decades of experience, held key portfolios including Finance (now retained by CM Fadnavis) and others that Sunetra is expected to inherit, except Finance. As a Rajya Sabha member without prior experience in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Sunetra will need to secure a seat in the assembly—likely through a by-election from Baramati, vacated by Ajit Pawar’s death—within six months, as per constitutional requirements.
The NCP remains divided following the 2023 split, with Ajit Pawar’s faction aligning with the Mahayuti government and Sharad Pawar’s group operating separately as NCP(SP). Sharad Pawar has distanced himself from the developments, stating no family consultation occurred and noting prior discussions about potential reunification (possibly around February 12). This adds layers of uncertainty to party dynamics.
While the appointment leverages widespread sympathy and provides immediate stability to the coalition, questions persist about Sunetra’s ability to lead the NCP in the long term. She lacks Ajit Pawar’s extensive organizational and legislative experience, and navigating coalition politics, internal factions, and family rifts will test her resolve. Supporters highlight her deep ties to Baramati’s development and the historic milestone for women in Maharashtra politics, while critics point to dynastic continuity.
Sunetra Pawar’s ascent marks a tragic yet transformative moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Whether she can consolidate party support, fulfill her husband’s legacy, and emerge as a strong leader remains to be seen amid turbulent times ahead for the NCP and the state.
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