Sunetra Pawar Takes Oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Pledges to Uphold Ajit Pawar's Vision
In a significant political development in Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the deputy chief minister of the state on Saturday. The ceremony took place shortly after she was unanimously elected as the leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative party, marking a new chapter in Maharashtra's political landscape.
Emotional First Statement After Swearing-In
Minutes after taking the oath of office, Sunetra Pawar addressed the public through a heartfelt social media post on platform X. In her first public reaction since the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of her husband and political stalwart Ajit Pawar, she expressed being "overwhelmed with emotions" as she assumes this crucial responsibility in the Maharashtra cabinet.
"Respected Ajitdada has given us the mantra to live a lifetime for farmers, toilers, women, youth, and deprived sections," Sunetra stated in her post. "Today, carrying forward the legacy of his thoughts, staying steadfast in the principles of 'Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar', I am overwhelmed with emotion as I take on the responsibility of the Deputy Chief Minister's position with a sense of duty."
Commitment to Continue Ajit Pawar's Work
The newly appointed deputy chief minister emphasized her determination to continue the work her late husband had championed throughout his political career. Despite acknowledging the profound grief caused by his untimely departure, she found strength in the principles he instilled in her.
"Though Dada's untimely departure has caused a mountain of grief to crash upon my heart, the true support I have is the duty-consciousness, the strength to struggle, and the commitment to the people that he taught me," Sunetra added. "I will continue to work tirelessly with honesty to realise the just, egalitarian, and developed Maharashtra of his dreams."
Ceremony Details and Political Significance
The swearing-in ceremony witnessed Sunetra Pawar clad in a traditional white saree as she took the oath of office. The proceedings were marked by emotional chants of "Ajit Dada amar rahein" (Long live Ajit Dada) from supporters and attendees, creating a poignant atmosphere that blended mourning with political transition.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were present during the ceremony, demonstrating the political unity surrounding this appointment. Notably, no members from the extended Pawar family attended the event, highlighting the personal and political complexities surrounding this transition.
Public Support and Future Vision
In her statement, Sunetra Pawar acknowledged the crucial role of public support during this challenging period. "In this difficult moment, the love and support from the people of Maharashtra is my strength," she expressed. "With the power of your trust, illuminating Dada's thoughts, I will keep moving forward with new hope."
This appointment represents not just a political succession but a symbolic continuation of Ajit Pawar's political ideology and commitment to Maharashtra's development. Sunetra Pawar's emphasis on working for farmers, laborers, women, youth, and marginalized communities aligns with the social justice principles that have been central to Maharashtra's political discourse for decades.
As she steps into this significant role, all eyes will be on how Sunetra Pawar navigates the complex political landscape of Maharashtra while honoring her husband's legacy and working toward the development goals he championed throughout his political career.
