The political landscape of Maharashtra is undergoing a seismic shift following the tragic demise of veteran leader Ajit Pawar. In a move to ensure continuity and stability within the party and the state government, Sunetra Pawar, the wife of the late leader, has been finalized as the next Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This decision marks a significant transition in the state's power dynamics.
The Crucial Baramati Meeting
The decision was finalized during a high-stakes meeting held today in Baramati. The meeting saw the participation of Sunetra Pawar, her sons. Parth and Jay Pawar, and the family’s trusted advisor, Naresh Arora. After extensive deliberations regarding the future of the party and the leadership vacuum left by Ajit Pawar,. The family and close associates reached a unanimous decision to nominate Sunetra Pawar for the Deputy CM post.
Role of Naresh Arora and Mumbai Coordination
Family advisor Naresh Arora is playing a pivotal role in coordinating this transition. He's expected to convey the family's decision to the senior leadership of the NCP and the alliance partners in Mumbai. Sunetra Pawar is likely to reach Mumbai by late tonight. Or early tomorrow morning to prepare for the formal proceedings. The coordination between the Baramati faction and the Mumbai leadership is being handled with utmost urgency.
Legislative Party Meeting and Oath Ceremony
According to reliable sources, a meeting of the NCP Legislative Party is scheduled for Saturday at 11:00 AM at Vidhan Bhavan. During this meeting, Sunetra Pawar will be formally elected as the Leader of the Legislative Party. Following this, a formal intimation will be sent to Raj Bhavan. The oath-taking ceremony is tentatively scheduled for Saturday afternoon, where the. Governor will administer the oath of office and secrecy to Sunetra Pawar.
Praful Patel Likely to Lead NCP
Beyond the government role, the party organization is also set for a major overhaul, while discussions are underway to appoint Praful Patel, the current Executive President of the NCP, as the National President of the party. Given his vast experience in national politics and his long-standing association with the Pawar family, Patel is seen as the ideal candidate to steer the party through this difficult period and prepare for upcoming electoral challenges.
Impact on Maharashtra Politics
Sunetra Pawar’s elevation to the post of Deputy CM is a historic moment. While she has been active in social work and local development in Baramati, this will be her first direct role in the state cabinet. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to keep the party's core support base intact and to honor the legacy of Ajit Pawar, while political analysts believe that her presence will provide the necessary emotional and political stability required at this juncture.
Preparations at Raj Bhavan
The state administration and Raj Bhavan are being alerted about the upcoming ceremony. Security measures have been tightened around Vidhan Bhavan and the Governor's residence. The official communication regarding the election of the new legislative leader. Will be submitted tomorrow morning, paving the way for the swearing-in. All eyes are now on the official announcement and the subsequent ceremony that will define the next chapter of Maharashtra's governance.