Sun Feb 01 04:24:22 UTC 2026: # Sunetra Pawar Ascends to Deputy Chief Minister Amidst Family Tragedy and Political Uncertainty

The Story:
Following the tragic death of her husband, former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash on January 28, 2026, Sunetra Pawar was unanimously chosen as the leader of the NCP party and sworn in as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister on January 31, 2026. The ceremony took place at Lok Bhavan. However, the event was marked by the absence of other Pawar family members, except for her son, who claimed they were not invited. Sunetra Pawar’s ascension comes at a critical juncture for the NCP, which faces fragmentation and potential reunification with Sharad Pawar’s NCP SP party.

Key Points:

  • Sunetra Pawar assumed leadership of the NCP following the death of her husband, Ajit Pawar.
  • She was sworn in as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister on January 31, 2026.
  • Other Pawar family members, except her son, were absent from the swearing-in ceremony.
  • The NCP faces internal division and a possible reunification with Sharad Pawar’s faction.
  • Sunetra Pawar is described as a political novice with a background in social service and education.
  • Senior NCP leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare are reportedly making decisions that exclude the rest of the Pawar family.

Key Takeaways:

  • The untimely death of Ajit Pawar has created a power vacuum within the NCP and altered the political landscape of Maharashtra.
  • Sunetra Pawar’s appointment is intended to maintain the Pawar family’s hold on the party, despite her lack of extensive political experience.
  • The absence of other Pawar family members at the swearing-in hints at deeper rifts within the family and potential power struggles.
  • The future of the NCP is uncertain, hinging on Sunetra Pawar’s ability to unite the party and navigate complex family relations.
  • The political stability of the ruling Mahayuti alliance is threatened due to the changed circumstances within the NCP.

Impact Analysis:

The elevation of Sunetra Pawar has significant implications for the political future of Maharashtra. Her ability to lead the NCP and maintain its position within the ruling coalition will be crucial for the stability of the government. The potential reunification of the NCP and NCP SP factions could reshape the political dynamics in the state. Her performance in the Deputy Chief Minister role will be closely watched, especially given her relative inexperience in active politics. The unfolding events will determine the future trajectory of the Pawar political dynasty and its influence on Maharashtra’s political scene.

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