In a significant political development in Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister on Saturday, January 31, 2026, marking a historic first for a woman in the role. The oath-taking ceremony took place at 5 p.m. in Mumbai, coming just days after the sudden death of her husband and former Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash near Baramati.
Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP and senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was named leader of the party’s legislative wing after a meeting of NCP lawmakers on Saturday. Her elevation fills the vacancy in Maharashtra’s cabinet created by Ajit Pawar’s passing and is seen as a move to maintain continuity and stability within the ruling coalition.
The ceremony drew attention not only for its political significance but also for the delicate context in which it unfolded occurring during a period of internal deliberations within the Pawar family and the NCP. Reports indicated that some senior party figures and family members were not consulted ahead of the event, adding a layer of tension to the proceedings.
Historic Moment in Maharashtra Politics
Sunetra Pawar’s appointment as Deputy Chief Minister marks the first time a woman has held this office in Maharashtra’s history, a milestone in the state’s political landscape. Leaders from across the political spectrum, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, offered support for her nomination, with assurances that the broader governing alliance would back the decision taken by the NCP.
Senior NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal confirmed that the party’s legislature meeting unanimously chose Sunetra Pawar as its leader, paving the way for her swearing-in. Chief Minister Fadnavis noted there were no objections to her appointment, provided party procedures were duly followed.
Political Implications and Reactions
The swift transition has generated mixed reactions within political circles. Some critics argued that the timing of the ceremony, held just days after Ajit Pawar’s death, ignored customary mourning practices and raised questions about internal communication within the Pawar family and party leadership.
Supporters, however, view Sunetra Pawar’s ascent as a stabilizing step for the NCP and the Maharashtra government, helping reassure allies and the public during a sensitive period. Her new role is expected to include oversight of key portfolios, as party leaders work to sustain governance momentum in the state.
Sunetra Pawar’s oath marks a defining chapter in Maharashtra politics, blending legacy, leadership transition, and evolving roles for women in government leadership.