The sudden and tragic death of Maharashtra’s longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. Now, a new chapter is being written, with his wife, Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar, poised to make history as the state’s first woman Deputy CM. But how did we get here, and what does it mean for Maharashtra’s future?
Reports from multiple sources confirm that Sunetra Pawar has accepted a proposal to step into her husband’s formidable shoes, a move that would keep the crucial Deputy CM post within the Pawar family and ensure continuity for the NCP in the ruling coalition [[3], [6]]. This isn’t just a sentimental choice; it’s a calculated political strategy with deep implications.
Table of Contents
- The Rise of Sunetra Pawar
- The Political Vacuum and the NCP’s Dilemma
- CM Fadnavis: A Strategic and Supportive Stance
- The Budget Challenge: A Formidable Task
- What This Means for Maharashtra’s Future
- Conclusion: A New Era for Maharashtra Politics?
- Sources
The Rise of Sunetra Pawar
Until recently, Sunetra Pawar was primarily known as a social worker and a Rajya Sabha member, often operating away from the intense glare of state-level electoral politics. Her background is in public health and social initiatives, giving her a different kind of political capital—one built on grassroots work rather than assembly floor maneuvers [[7]].
However, her lineage is undeniable. As the daughter-in-law of veteran leader Sharad Pawar and the wife of Ajit Pawar, she commands immense respect and loyalty within the NCP’s rank and file. This familial connection is now her strongest political asset, providing a direct line to the legacy and voter base that her husband cultivated over decades [[1]].
The Political Vacuum and the NCP’s Dilemma
Ajit Pawar’s passing left a massive void, not just in the Deputy CM’s chair but also in the Finance Ministry, a portfolio he held with great authority. The NCP, already navigating a complex alliance with the BJP, needed a swift and stable solution to avoid a power vacuum that could destabilize the government [[5]].
Internal discussions within the NCP quickly coalesced around Sunetra Pawar. Senior leaders like Praful Patel have stated there is “no opposition” to her candidacy, signaling a rare moment of unity within the party on this critical decision [[9]]. The logic is clear: her appointment offers immediate stability, honors the legacy of Ajit Pawar, and maintains the NCP’s claim on its share of ministerial power in the coalition.
CM Fadnavis: A Strategic and Supportive Stance
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s reaction has been both politically astute and publicly gracious. He has firmly stated that the decision on the NCP’s next leader rests entirely with the party itself, and that the BJP-led government will stand by their choice [[13]].
This stance serves multiple purposes. It respects the autonomy of an alliance partner, avoids any appearance of interference, and ensures the smooth functioning of the government during a period of mourning. Fadnavis understands that a stable NCP leadership is crucial for his own administration’s survival, making his public support for their internal process a masterstroke of realpolitik [[17]].
The Budget Challenge: A Formidable Task
One of the most immediate challenges facing the new leadership is the upcoming state budget. Ajit Pawar, a seasoned finance minister who had presented 11 state budgets, was slated to present his 12th before his untimely death [[21]]. With the budget session scheduled for February 23, time is of the essence [[22]].
Given Sunetra Pawar’s limited experience in fiscal matters, it is widely expected that Chief Minister Fadnavis himself will step in to present the budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year [[18]]. This temporary arrangement will allow the new Deputy CM the necessary time to acclimatize to her role and the intricacies of the state’s finances without the immense pressure of a high-stakes budget presentation on day one.
What This Means for Maharashtra’s Future
The potential appointment of Sunetra Pawar as Deputy CM is more than a personal story; it’s a significant political event. If sworn in, she will become Maharashtra’s first woman to hold the post, breaking a long-standing glass ceiling in the state’s male-dominated political arena [[4]].
Her success will depend on her ability to transition from a social worker to a decisive political leader. She will need to build her own administrative team, navigate the complex dynamics of the BJP-NCP alliance, and prove her mettle on the state’s most pressing issues, from agriculture to urban development. Her initial focus will likely be on continuing her husband’s key projects, providing a sense of continuity for the electorate [[12]].
Conclusion: A New Era for Maharashtra Politics?
The path forward for Sunetra Pawar is fraught with both historic opportunity and immense challenge. Backed by her party and with the tacit support of the Chief Minister, she stands on the cusp of making history. Her journey from the Rajya Sabha to the heart of Maharashtra’s state government will be watched closely by the entire nation. Whether she can successfully fill the giant shoes left behind remains to be seen, but her entry into this role marks a pivotal moment in the state’s political narrative.
Sources
- [[1]] The Indian Express: “NCP to keep Maharashtra Deputy CM post in family”
- [[3]] India Today: “Sunetra Pawar to take oath as Maharashtra Deputy CM”
- [[4]] The Hindu: “Sunetra Pawar to be the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra”
- [[5]] Mid-Day: “Could Sunetra Pawar be the new deputy CM?”
- [[6]] Deccan Herald: “Process to Appoint Sunetra Pawar as Maharashtra Deputy CM”
- [[7]] Moneycontrol: “Who is Sunetra Pawar? Rajya Sabha MP, social worker…”
- [[9]] The Times of India: “No opposition to Sunetra Pawar, says Praful Patel”
- [[12]] MSN: “Focus on Sunetra Pawar as Ajit successor buzz gathers steam”
- [[13]] The Indian Express: “Succession after Ajit Pawar: NCP opens talks, leaders meet CM Fadnavis”
- [[17]] Bhaskar English: “Ajit Pawar’s demise sparks NCP merger talks, deputy CM demand”
- [[18]] Rediff: “Ajit Pawar’s death: Fadnavis most likely to present Maha Budget”
- [[21]] The Times of India: “Longest-serving deputy CM was set to present 12th budget”
- [[22]] Free Press Journal: “Who Will Present Maharashtra’s Budget After Ajit Pawar’s Death”