Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, following the death of her husband, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash on Wednesday. She stated she will “carry forward the legacy” of her late husband and “continue to work tirelessly” for the state.
A New Role Amidst Grief
Sunetra Pawar’s appointment comes after she was unanimously chosen as the leader of the legislative party of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). She expressed being “overwhelmed with emotions” while accepting the responsibilities of the position. During the swearing-in ceremony, chants of “Ajit Dada amar rahein” – meaning “Long live Ajit Dada” – were heard.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were present at the ceremony. Notably, no other members of the Pawar family were in attendance. Sunetra Pawar was seen wearing a white saree during the oath-taking.
Portfolios Assigned
In addition to her role as Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar has been assigned portfolios including state excise, sports and youth welfare, minority development, and Aukaf. She has pledged to work towards a “just, egalitarian, and developed Maharashtra,” guided by the principles of ‘Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar’ and the ideals of her late husband.
The plane crash that claimed Ajit Pawar’s life, along with his PSO and three cabin crew members, occurred around 8:48 am on Wednesday while attempting to land at the Baramati airfield. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau are currently investigating the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ajit Pawar’s role before his death?
Ajit Pawar was the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and had served in that position for six terms across four different administrations.
What portfolios has Sunetra Pawar been assigned?
Sunetra Pawar has been assigned the portfolios of state excise, sports and youth welfare, minority development, and Aukaf.
Who was present at Sunetra Pawar’s swearing-in ceremony?
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were present at the ceremony. No other members of the Pawar family attended.
As Sunetra Pawar steps into her new role, what challenges and opportunities do you foresee for the state of Maharashtra?
