Sat Jan 31 08:13:56 UTC 2026: ### Sunetra Pawar Set to Become Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy Chief Minister Following Husband’s Death

The Story:
In a swift turn of events following the tragic death of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar in an air crash on January 28, 2026, his wife, Sunetra Pawar, is poised to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The NCP is scheduled to hold a Legislature Party meeting on January 31, 2026, to formally choose her as their new leader. The swearing-in ceremony is planned for the same day at 5 p.m. at Raj Bhavan. This move comes amid claims of a planned merger between factions within the NCP, allegations that are currently being refuted by some party leaders.

Key Points:

  • Sunetra Pawar is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, succeeding her late husband, Ajit Pawar.
  • The NCP will hold a Legislature Party meeting at 2 p.m. on January 31, 2026, to elect Sunetra Pawar as their new leader.
  • The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 5 p.m. on January 31, 2026, at Raj Bhavan.
  • NCP(SP) leader Jayant Patil alleges a pre-planned merger between NCP factions, scheduled for announcement in mid-February.
  • Maharashtra NCP president Sunil Tatkare denies discussions of a merger at a meeting on January 17, 2026.
  • NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar claims he is unaware of Sunetra Pawar’s swearing-in.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ajit Pawar’s sudden death has created a power vacuum within the NCP, leading to a rapid succession plan.
  • The move to install Sunetra Pawar suggests an effort to maintain stability and potentially consolidate power within the party.
  • Disagreements and conflicting statements among NCP leaders highlight underlying tensions and potential factionalism within the party.
  • The future stability of the ruling alliance, Mahayuti, is uncertain, with the loss of Ajit Pawar potentially altering the balance of power.
  • The unexpected appointment of Sunetra Pawar raises questions about the long-term strategy and unity within the NCP.

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