Fadnavis pledges unwavering support to NCP as Sunetra Pawar prepares to be sworn in Deputy CM

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on January 30 extended unequivocal support to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) ahead of Sunetra Pawar’s anticipated oath-taking as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister.

The widow of the late Ajit Pawar, Sunetra’s elevation marks a sensitive and significant moment in the state’s political landscape following the shocking demise of Ajit Pawar in a fatal plane crash last week.

Addressing the media after a meeting with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Fadnavis stressed that the Mahayuti alliance stands firmly behind the NCP’s decision regarding the vacant Deputy CM post. “The NCP will take whatever decision it deems fit for the post of Deputy Chief Minister, and the government, along with the BJP, will fully back that decision,” he said.

Confirming talks with NCP leaders, Fadnavis noted that party representatives had engaged with him twice to discuss the succession, underscoring a spirit of cooperation amid grief. Sources close to the NCP confirmed that Sunetra Pawar, a sitting Rajya Sabha MP, has accepted the proposal and is set to take oath on January 31 at 5 pm. She is expected to retain her current portfolios in Excise and Sports.

Fadnavis also clarified that the Finance portfolio, previously managed by Ajit Pawar, will remain under his charge until the crucial state budget session in March, after which it will be transitioned to the NCP. “Ajit Pawar had already completed significant preparatory work on the budget. I will personally oversee the remaining procedures,” Fadnavis said.

The Chief Minister further highlighted the BJP’s resounding success in the recent Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections, with a clear majority secured by the party. The decision on the mayor’s post, he added, would be finalized collectively with local party leaders and MLAs.

Ajit Pawar’s untimely death on January 28, caused by a plane crash near Baramati airport, sent shockwaves across Maharashtra’s political circles.

The 66-year-old leader’s last rites, conducted with full state honors, saw an outpouring of grief and respect from political heavyweights including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Sharad Pawar, and Devendra Fadnavis himself.

As Maharashtra navigates this period of mourning and transition, the political fraternity’s unified stance signals a commitment to stability and continuity in governance during trying times.