Sunetra Pawar has been formally elected as the new national president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Thursday. This appointment comes less than a month after the death of her husband, Ajit Pawar, who previously held both the positions of national president and Maharashtra deputy chief minister.
A Succession Following Tragedy
Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28th. The crash resulted in the deaths of his personal security officer, both pilots, and a flight attendant. Following his death, Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the leader of the NCP’s legislative party on January 31st, and was sworn in as Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister on the same day.
Sunetra Pawar’s commitment to the party and the state was expressed shortly after her election. She stated, “The NCP is my family and I will not leave any section of society behind. We will move ahead by taking everyone along.” She likewise pledged to continue her husband’s perform, saying, “I have seen Ajitdada strive throughout his life for the development of Maharashtra. We will not let his dream remain unfulfilled…Together we will accomplish it.”
Political Background and Future Steps
Sunetra Pawar contested the Baramati seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, facing her cousin Supriya Sule, who ultimately won her fourth consecutive term. The NCP has since nominated Sunetra Pawar to the Rajya Sabha. As deputy chief minister, she has six months to secure election as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council to continue in her role.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ajit Pawar die?
Ajit Pawar died on January 28th in a private plane crash in Baramati.
When was Sunetra Pawar elected NCP national president?
Sunetra Pawar was formally elected as the NCP national president on Thursday, February 26th.
What is required for Sunetra Pawar to continue as deputy chief minister?
Sunetra Pawar has six months to secure election as a Maharashtra MLA or MLC to continue serving as deputy chief minister.
How will Sunetra Pawar balance her new role as NCP president with her responsibilities as deputy chief minister and her recent nomination to the Rajya Sabha?
