No decision yet on Sunetra Pawar’s role as NCP weighs leadership options after Ajit Pawar’s death

Maharashtra politics remains tense and uncertain following the sudden death of deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a tragic plane crash in Baramati. As leaders, party workers, and supporters mourn his loss, attention has quickly turned to the future of the Nationalist Congress Party faction led by him and the question of who will step into his political role.

Speculation has been growing over whether Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, could be given a leadership position in the party. However, senior NCP leader Praful Patel has made it clear that no such decision has been taken yet. He said the party will soon hold a meeting of its MLAs to decide on the next course of action, keeping public sentiment and party unity in mind.

Patel made these remarks after some NCP leaders met Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at his residence. The meeting added to political curiosity, but Patel insisted that it was only to inform the chief minister that a formal decision on party leadership would be taken shortly.

Clarification on Sunetra Pawar’s role

Speaking to reporters, Praful Patel directly addressed the rumours surrounding Sunetra Pawar. He stated that there has been no discussion or final decision about her taking charge of the party or stepping into Ajit Pawar’s political role. According to him, the party does not want to rush into any announcement during a sensitive period marked by grief and emotional uncertainty.

Patel said an important meeting of NCP MLAs will be convened soon. In that meeting, leaders will openly discuss the future leadership of the party faction and decide who should succeed Ajit Pawar. He stressed that the decision will be taken collectively and with respect for the feelings of party workers, supporters, and the people of Maharashtra.

Sunetra Pawar has been associated with politics for several years and is known as a loyal supporter of her husband’s political career. She has often been seen at public events, party meetings, and election campaigns. This visibility has led to speculation that she could be considered for a larger role, especially during this period of transition. However, senior leaders have clearly indicated that no such move has been finalised.

The party leadership appears cautious, aware that any hurried decision could lead to internal differences or public criticism. By delaying an announcement, the NCP seems to be giving itself time to build consensus and ensure stability within the party.

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Uncertainty over party leadership and government role

Ajit Pawar’s death has created a major leadership vacuum in Maharashtra politics. As the head of his NCP faction and as deputy chief minister, he played a key role in both party strategy and state governance. His sudden absence has raised two important questions: who will lead his faction of the NCP, and who will replace him as deputy chief minister.

For now, no names have been officially announced for either role. Party leaders say that discussions are ongoing and that the views of MLAs will be crucial in the final decision. The NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar has significant representation in the Maharashtra Assembly, making the leadership choice politically sensitive.

The meeting between some NCP leaders and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has also attracted attention. While Patel clarified that no leadership proposal was presented during the meeting, it highlighted the need for coordination between alliance partners. Any change in the NCP’s leadership could impact the balance within the ruling coalition and influence government functioning.

Political observers believe that the party will try to maintain continuity and avoid sudden shifts that could weaken its position. At the same time, there is pressure to act quickly to ensure smooth administration and clear political direction. The choice of a new leader will likely depend on experience, acceptability within the party, and the ability to command support in the Assembly.

Ajit Pawar’s death has not only been an emotional loss for his supporters but also a defining moment for his party faction. As Maharashtra watches closely, the NCP leadership has promised a decision soon, but only after careful thought and consultation.

Until then, speculation is expected to continue. What remains clear is that the party wants to project unity and respect the legacy of Ajit Pawar while planning its future path. The coming days will be crucial in shaping both the party’s leadership and the broader political landscape of the state.