India News Live: Sunetra Pawar set to take oath as Maharashtra's first Deputy CM today

Historic Oath-Taking Ceremony Ushers in New Era

Sunetra Pawar took the oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister on Saturday at a subdued ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai.

Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath of office and secrecy in a simple gathering that included Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and other senior leaders.

The event, timed around 5 pm, resonated with chants of "Ajit Dada Amar Rahe" from emotional party workers, honoring the memory of her late husband, Ajit Pawar, who perished in a plane crash in Baramati earlier that week.

This swearing-in positions Sunetra Pawar as the first woman to hold this key role in the state's history, a milestone that has captured widespread attention across political circles.

From Grief to Leadership: Sunetra Pawar's Swift Rise

The path to this position unfolded rapidly after the NCP Legislature Party unanimously elected Sunetra Pawar as its leader during a high-level meeting at Vidhan Bhavan.

Her name was proposed by senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal and supported by others, reflecting strong party consensus amid the leadership vacuum left by Ajit Pawar's untimely demise.

At 62, Sunetra Pawar, who had previously entered the Rajya Sabha in June 2024 after an unsuccessful Lok Sabha bid, steps into active governance with portfolios including State Excise Duty, Sports and Youth Welfare, and Minorities Development & Aukaf.

Chief Minister Fadnavis has taken over the crucial Planning and Finance departments previously managed by Ajit Pawar, ensuring continuity in state administration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations via social media, expressing confidence in her ability to advance the welfare of Maharashtra's people.[1][2][4][5][6][7] Clad in a white saree symbolizing mourning, Sunetra Pawar shared her first public comments post-oath, vowing to honor her husband's vision.

"I carry forward this legacy with loyalty. My priorities will be social equality, women’s empowerment, rural upliftment, and making the administration more sensitive, transparent, and people-oriented. To strengthen Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Viksit Bharat 2047', our government is ready to achieve all-round development of Maharashtra."

She emphasized transforming personal grief into a drive for progress, focusing on farmers' welfare, marginalized communities, and administrative reforms.

This transition occurs within the Mahayuti alliance framework, strengthening ties between the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP as they navigate state politics.

Broader Political Ripples and Legacy Questions

The appointment has sparked discussions on dynastic politics, with some viewing it as a natural continuation of the Pawar family's influence in Maharashtra.

Ajit Pawar's death not only created a void in NCP leadership but also halted talks of merging the party's factions, as hinted by Sharad Pawar, who mentioned a proposed reunification date of February 12.

Supporters see Sunetra's role as a stabilizing force, while critics question whether family ties should dictate such high office.

The ceremony's low-key nature underscored the somber mood, attended by legislative speakers, council members, chief secretaries, and family.

As she balances her new responsibilities, eyes remain on how Sunetra Pawar will steer policies on excise, sports, youth, and minorities amid ongoing state challenges like economic growth and social equity.

In summary, Sunetra Pawar's oath as Maharashtra's first female Deputy Chief Minister represents a poignant blend of tragedy and resilience, with her leadership poised to shape the state's future while carrying forward Ajit Pawar's enduring legacy.