Sat Jan 31 08:59:58 UTC 2026: # Sunetra Pawar Set to Become Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy Chief Minister Following Husband’s Sudden Death

The Story:
In a swift turn of events following the tragic death of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, 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 elect her as their new leader. A swearing-in ceremony is expected to follow shortly thereafter. The ruling alliance Mahayuti, led by the BJP, has pledged its support for the NCP’s decision.

Key Points:

  • Sunetra Pawar, wife of the late Ajit Pawar, is expected to be sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on January 31, 2026.
  • Ajit Pawar’s death in an air crash at Baramati occurred three days prior.
  • The NCP Legislature Party meeting will take place at 2 p.m. on January 31, 2026.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP have expressed their support for the NCP’s choice.
  • Senior NCP leader Jayant Patil alleges that key party figures were aware of a planned merger between NCP factions, scheduled to be announced in mid-February, but now postponed.
  • Sunil Tatkare, Maharashtra NCP president, denies reports of merger discussions.
  • Sharad Pawar claims to be unaware of the swearing-in ceremony.
  • Acharya Devvrat, Maharashtra Governor, will administer the oath of office to Sunetra Pawar at 5 p.m. at Raj Bhavan.

Key Takeaways:

  • The sudden death of Ajit Pawar has created a power vacuum in Maharashtra politics, which Sunetra Pawar is stepping in to fill.
  • The speed of Sunetra Pawar’s elevation suggests a pre-arranged succession plan within the Pawar family and the NCP.
  • The conflicting statements regarding a potential NCP merger indicate internal divisions and strategic maneuvering within the party.
  • The BJP’s swift endorsement highlights the importance of maintaining stability within the ruling alliance.

Impact Analysis:

  • Sunetra Pawar’s appointment could reshape the dynamics of Maharashtra’s political landscape, potentially shifting the balance of power within the Mahayuti alliance.
  • The merger speculation raises questions about the future of the NCP, and whether the Sharad Pawar faction will consolidate its position or merge with the current Ajit Pawar led NCP.
  • The situation highlights the continued importance of dynastic politics in India, with family lineage playing a significant role in leadership succession.

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