Maharashtra Chief Minister Pledges Support as NCP Faces Leadership Decision
In a significant development following the tragic passing of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has made a clear statement regarding the political succession. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Friday, the BJP leader emphasized that the decision on who will lead the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) forward rests entirely with the party itself.
Fadnavis Assures Unwavering Support to NCP
Devendra Fadnavis declared, "Whatever decision is to be taken will be taken by the NCP. We will support their decision. Whether it concerns Ajit Pawar's family or the NCP, we stand with them both as the government and as the BJP." This assurance comes at a critical juncture as the political landscape of Maharashtra adjusts to the sudden vacuum created by the loss of a key figure.
The chief minister's remarks underscore a stance of non-interference and solidarity, aiming to provide stability during this period of transition. His commitment extends to both the party apparatus and the grieving family of the late leader, reflecting a nuanced approach to coalition dynamics.
Budget Oversight and Administrative Continuity
Beyond the political leadership question, Fadnavis addressed immediate administrative responsibilities. Ajit Pawar, who held the crucial finance portfolio, was scheduled to present the state budget next month. The chief minister revealed that significant preparatory work had already been completed by Pawar.
"Starting tomorrow, I will personally oversee the remaining processes, and we will decide on the next steps," Fadnavis stated. This hands-on approach is intended to ensure that essential governmental functions, particularly fiscal planning, proceed without disruption, honoring the work initiated by the departed deputy chief minister.
Speculation Surrounds Sunetra Pawar's Potential Elevation
Fadnavis's statement arrives amidst widespread reports that the NCP is poised to hold a legislative party meeting on Saturday. The agenda is expected to focus on electing Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar's wife, to succeed her husband as the legislative party leader. This move would subsequently pave the way for her elevation to the position of Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
However, when questioned about the possibility of Sunetra Pawar being sworn in as one of his two deputies—the other being Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde—Fadnavis declined to offer any comment. This reticence leaves the formal appointment process open to further political developments.
Sunetra Pawar, who made her electoral debut in last year's Lok Sabha election, faced a high-profile defeat. She was contested by her sister-in-law and Ajit Pawar's cousin, Supriya Sule, in the family's traditional stronghold of Baramati. Despite this setback, her potential ascension now marks a pivotal moment in the party's lineage and Maharashtra's political narrative.
Remembering Ajit Pawar's Political Legacy
Ajit Pawar's untimely demise at the age of 66 has sent shockwaves through the state's political corridors. As the longest-serving deputy chief minister in Maharashtra's history, he held the post for an impressive six terms, demonstrating enduring influence and administrative acumen.
His political journey took a dramatic turn in 2023 when he broke away from his uncle, veteran politician Sharad Pawar, to align with the BJP and Shiv Sena-led Mahayuti alliance. This realignment reshaped coalition equations and underscored his strategic significance within the state's power structure.
The Maratha leader's life ended tragically on Wednesday morning when the private aircraft he was traveling in crashed during an emergency landing in Baramati. The accident claimed the lives of all five individuals on board, including Pawar's personal security officer, both pilots, and a flight attendant, adding a layer of profound loss to the political upheaval.
As Maharashtra navigates this period of mourning and transition, the statements from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis provide a framework for procedural clarity and cooperative governance. The coming days will be crucial in determining how the NCP consolidates its leadership and how the state administration maintains momentum in the absence of one of its most experienced hands.
