Sat Jan 31 03:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Sunetra Pawar Set to Become Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy Chief Minister Following Husband’s Death

The Story:

Just days after the sudden death of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an air crash, his wife, Sunetra Pawar, is poised to take his place as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The NCP is holding a Legislature Party meeting on January 31, 2026, to officially elect her as their new leader. The ruling alliance, Mahayuti, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP, has pledged its support. This rapid succession follows a period of political turbulence within the NCP, marked by discussions of a potential merger between factions, adding complexity to Sunetra Pawar‘s impending role.

Key Points:

  • Sunetra Pawar is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
  • The NCP Legislature Party meeting is scheduled for January 31, 2026, to confirm her leadership.
  • Ajit Pawar died in an air crash three days prior to the announcement.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance support the NCP’s decision.
  • NCP leader Jayant Patil claims that senior NCP leaders, including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal, were aware of merger plans finalized on January 16, 2026, intended to be announced on February 8, 2026 but postponed to February 12, 2026.
  • Sunil Tatkare, Maharashtra NCP president, refutes media reports of merger discussions during a meeting in Baramati on January 17, 2026, clarifying it was a tea meeting concerning local body elections.
  • The oath-taking ceremony for Sunetra Pawar is scheduled for 5 p.m. on January 31, 2026, at Raj Bhavan.
  • NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar stated he was unaware of his daughter-in-law’s swearing-in.

Critical Analysis:

The swiftness of Sunetra Pawar‘s ascension to Deputy Chief Minister raises questions about pre-existing plans and power dynamics within the NCP. Jayant Patil‘s claim that the merger was already discussed and planned and that senior leaders are aware of the merger suggests that the faction led by the now deceased Ajit Pawar may have had long-term strategies in place, or possibly was trying to consolidate power and influence with the current ruling party. The denial by Sunil Tatkare, who is the Maharashtra NCP president of merger discussions and the fact that Sharad Pawar claimed he was unaware of the swearing-in ceremony underscores internal divisions and a potential power struggle with the Nationalist Congress Party.

Key Takeaways:

  • The death of Ajit Pawar has created a power vacuum within the NCP that is quickly being filled by his wife, Sunetra Pawar.
  • Internal divisions and conflicting accounts suggest underlying tensions within the NCP regarding its future direction and potential merger plans.
  • The BJP-led Mahayuti’s support for Sunetra Pawar indicates a strategic alignment aimed at maintaining stability within the ruling coalition.
  • The sudden appointment, four days after the death of her husband is a clear indication of the long term goals for this seat held in Maharashtra politics.
  • The swiftness of events also indicates the party and the ruling BJP were poised and prepared for this to happen.

Impact Analysis:

The appointment of Sunetra Pawar could reshape the political landscape of Maharashtra. If she can successfully consolidate power, the NCP may remain a significant force in the state government. However, the existing internal divisions could lead to further fragmentation and instability. Additionally, the Mahayuti alliance’s dependence on the NCP could shift the balance of power within the coalition, potentially strengthening the BJP’s influence. The long-term impact will depend on Sunetra Pawar‘s ability to navigate the complex political terrain and manage internal rivalries.

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