NEW DELHI: In a significant development within Maharashtra's political landscape, NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar addressed the media on Saturday, firmly stating that he had no prior information regarding reports suggesting that Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar is poised to be sworn in as the state's deputy chief minister. Pawar asserted that any such decision must have been taken by her party leadership, clarifying that he was not consulted on the matter.
Sharad Pawar's Press Conference Statements
During a press conference, Sharad Pawar responded to queries about the potential appointment, saying, "I have no information about it. Her party must have decided. What I saw in the newspaper today is that some names like Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare have taken the initiative to make some decisions. I had no discussion on this. I am not even aware if it is happening." His remarks come amid heightened political activity in Maharashtra following the death of NCP chief and deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, with rapid developments sparking speculation about leadership changes, possible mergers of rival NCP factions, and future alliance strategies.
Family Unity and Political Decisions
When questioned about whether he, as a senior member of the Pawar family, was taken into confidence regarding Sunetra Pawar's possible appointment, Sharad Pawar downplayed any suggestions of discord. "Family stands united if an issue occurs in the family. There are no issues in the family," he emphasized. He further clarified that discussions on political and organizational decisions were occurring away from him, noting, "All these discussions are not taking place here; they are happening in Mumbai. Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare and other senior leaders are having these discussions. Whatever is being seen appears to be decisions taken by them. I will not comment on this."
Background on Talks and Media Speculation
Sharad Pawar added an important clarification, revealing that talks between the two NCP factions were already underway before the tragedy. "What I know is that a process had begun for our party (NCP-SP) and Ajit Pawar's party (NCP) to work together, and a decision on this was to be taken soon. However, this unfortunate accident has occurred," he said, referring to Ajit Pawar's death. When asked directly about the possibility of joining the NDA in the event of a merger, he firmly dismissed the suggestion, stating, "This is all going on on your side (media), there is nothing like that here," thereby rejecting speculation about his future political alignment.
Tribute to Ajit Pawar and Current Developments
During the press conference, Sharad Pawar paid a heartfelt tribute to Ajit Pawar, describing him as a leader deeply committed to public service. "Ajit Pawar was a capable and committed leader who truly worked for the people. He would thoroughly understand public issues and always worked to ensure that people received justice," he said. Recalling Ajit Pawar's bond with his constituency, he added, "The people of Baramati have always stood by him, and he never fell short when it came to his work and responsibilities. His passing away has deeply shocked all of us." Sharad Pawar stressed that the circumstances following Ajit Pawar's death demand resilience and continuity, urging the new generation to carry forward his legacy.
Sunetra Pawar's Movements and Party Dynamics
According to news agency PTI, Sunetra Pawar reached Mumbai in the early hours of Saturday, accompanied by her son Parth, ahead of a crucial meeting of the NCP legislature wing. The 62-year-old leader, who is not a member of either House of the Maharashtra legislature, is expected to be elected leader of the party's legislature wing and is set to take oath as Maharashtra's first woman deputy chief minister. Sources within NCP (SP) and Sharad Pawar's family indicated they were not privy to Sunetra Pawar's decision to join the BJP-led Mahayuti government, with one source stating, "The NCP (SP) leadership and Sharad Pawar's family members were completely in the dark about her plans."
Political Support and Historical Context
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed support for whatever decision is taken by Ajit Pawar's family and the NCP, saying, "The NCP will take whatever decision it has to take for the post of deputy chief minister, and we will support the decision." Sunetra Pawar had largely maintained a low political profile until the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when she contested from Baramati but lost to NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, and was subsequently elected to the Rajya Sabha. This development marks a pivotal moment in Maharashtra politics, highlighting ongoing realignments and the evolving roles within the Pawar family and NCP factions.
