Sunetra Pawar took oath as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister at Lok Bhavan, marking a historic moment in state politics after the tragic demise of her husband, Ajit Pawar.
She now becomes the first woman to hold the Deputy CM post in Maharashtra, a role that carries significant political weight. As leader of the NCP legislative party, Sunetra Pawar’s elevation signals continuity in leadership while also opening a new chapter for women in state politics.
She will oversee the Excise and Sports ministries, while the Finance portfolio remains with Devendra Fadnavis during the budget session before being handed to the NCP. Senior NCP leaders proposed her elevation to strengthen the party ahead of the Pune Zilla Parishad elections on February 7. The decision came after deliberations within the Pawar family, marking her formal entry into executive leadership.
Ajit Pawar, 66, lost his life in the crash along with five others, including his security officer, a flight attendant, and two pilots. His funeral in Baramati was held with full state honours and attended by leaders such as Amit Shah, Devendra Fadnavis, Nitin Gadkari, Sharad Pawar, and actor Riteish Deshmukh.
Her swearing-in ceremony drew wide attention, symbolising both personal resilience and political transition. The event underscored the importance of her leadership in steering the party and government responsibilities during a sensitive period.
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