Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, becoming the first woman to hold the post in the state. Her elevation comes days after the sudden death of her husband and senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash at Baramati.
Sunetra Pawar took the oath at Lok Bhavan, with Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in attendance. Chants of “Ajit dada amar rahe” echoed through the complex as party members paid tribute to the late leader.
Earlier on Saturday, Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the leader of the NCP legislature party, paving the way for her induction into the BJP-led Mahayuti government. Her nomination was proposed by senior party leader Chhagan Bhujbal and seconded by other NCP veterans, reflecting broad consensus within the party.
Also read: Sunetra Pawar unanimously elected leader of NCP legislature party
While the specific cabinet portfolios to be assigned to Sunetra Pawar are yet to be announced, her late husband held six key departments, including minority affairs, sports, and excise. The move is seen as a stabilising step for the ruling alliance, which faced a leadership vacuum following Ajit Pawar’s death.
The swearing-in also coincides with political developments within the NCP. Sharad Pawar, NCP (SP) chief, confirmed that talks are ongoing regarding a possible reunification of the party’s rival factions, with February 12 being discussed as a tentative date. Ajit Pawar’s son reportedly met Sharad Pawar in Baramati on Saturday, further fuelling speculation.
Sharad Pawar clarified that he was not consulted on Sunetra Pawar’s elevation, emphasising that the decision was made by the NCP legislature party. Analysts note that the appointment underscores the party’s intent to maintain continuity and cohesion within the government while also honouring Ajit Pawar’s legacy.
The induction of Sunetra Pawar marks a historic moment in Maharashtra politics, highlighting the growing presence of women in executive roles. Party leaders and legislators described the occasion as a tribute to Ajit Pawar’s contribution to state governance, while supporters hailed it as a unifying step for the NCP.
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