Sunetra Pawar reaches Mumbai to become Maharashtra first woman Deputy CM

​The political landscape of Maharashtra is witnessing a historic shift. Sunetra Pawar has arrived in Mumbai, stepping out from the shadows of a long supportive role into the forefront of state leadership. She is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, a milestone that carries both immense emotional weight and significant political responsibility. This move follows the tragic and sudden passing of her husband, the former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, in a devastating plane crash earlier this week. As she takes this mantle, the state watches a transition that is as much about family legacy as it is about breaking new ground for women in politics.

​A Journey from the Background to the Forefront

​For years, Sunetra Pawar was known primarily as the quiet force behind Ajit Pawar. While she was deeply involved in social work and environmental initiatives through the Environmental Forum of India, she largely steered clear of the direct glare of electoral politics. Her work in Baramati, focusing on organic farming and sanitation, earned her respect as a "Green Warrior," but her role remained rooted in the community rather than the assembly.

​That began to change in 2024 when she contested the Baramati Lok Sabha seat. Although she lost that high-stakes battle to her sister-in-law, Supriya Sule, the campaign marked her formal entry into the political arena. Soon after, she was nominated to the Rajya Sabha. Now, under the most difficult of circumstances, she is preparing to take on an executive role that her husband held six times.

​The Historic Milestone for Maharashtra

​Maharashtra has seen many powerful women leaders, but the post of Deputy Chief Minister has remained elusive for them until now. By taking the oath of office at Raj Bhavan, Sunetra Pawar is shattering a glass ceiling that has stood since the state’s formation. Her appointment is a strong signal of the changing times, proving that the leadership structure is evolving to include women in its highest echelons.

​This isn't just a symbolic gesture. As the leader of the NCP legislature party, Sunetra Pawar will be tasked with steering a major political faction through a period of intense transition. The unanimous support she received from party veterans like Chhagan Bhujbal and Sunil Tatkare suggests a deep-seated trust in her ability to keep the party united during this mourning period.

​Stepping into the Shoes of Ajit Dada

​The shadow of Ajit Pawar, affectionately called "Dada" by his followers, looms large over this appointment. He was a master of administration and a leader who knew the pulse of his workers. Replacing him is no small feat. Sunetra Pawar is not just taking over a title; she is inheriting a complex political machinery and a loyal base that expects the same level of accessibility and decisiveness.

​Reports indicate that she will handle the Excise and Sports portfolios, departments that require a firm hand and clear vision. While the Finance department—previously held by Ajit Pawar—will temporarily remain with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Sunetra’s entry into the cabinet ensures that the NCP's influence remains intact within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

​The Support of the Mahayuti Alliance

​The transition has seen a remarkable level of coordination within the ruling coalition. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has been vocal about his support, stating that the BJP stands firmly behind the Pawar family and the NCP in this hour of grief. This alliance is crucial for Sunetra Pawar as she navigates her first few months in office.

​The upcoming Zilla Parishad elections in Pune and other local bodies will be her first major test. The party needs a figurehead who can mobilize workers and maintain the momentum Ajit Pawar built over decades. By moving quickly to appoint Sunetra, the Mahayuti government is aiming for stability and continuity in a state that has seen its fair share of political volatility in recent years.

​A Family and Party in Transition

​While the political world moves forward, the personal grief of the Pawar family remains palpable. Sunetra reached the "Devgiri" residence in Mumbai in the early hours of the morning, accompanied by her son Parth. The image of a family mourning while simultaneously preparing to lead is a poignant reminder of the burdens of political life.

​There are also larger questions about the future of the NCP itself. Conversations about a potential merger between the two factions of the party have been circulating, especially given the late Ajit Pawar’s reported wishes for unity. While the immediate focus is on the swearing-in, the long-term path for Sunetra Pawar will involve navigating these delicate family and party dynamics under the watchful eye of Sharad Pawar.

​Challenges and the Path Ahead

​Being the first woman Deputy CM brings a unique set of challenges. Critics often point to her lack of direct administrative experience, but her supporters argue that her years of managing large-scale social projects and her deep understanding of the Baramati constituency have prepared her for this moment. She will need to prove her mettle quickly, especially with the state budget session on the horizon.

​Her success will be measured by how well she can balance the legacy of her husband with her own vision for the state. She has already demonstrated resilience during the 2024 elections, and now, with the weight of the state government on her shoulders, she has the opportunity to define her own political identity.

​A New Chapter for Maharashtra Politics

​As the sun sets over Mumbai today, the swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhavan will mark the beginning of a new chapter. It is a moment of mixed emotions—sadness for a leader lost and hope for a new one rising. Sunetra Pawar's arrival in Mumbai is not just a change of guard; it is the start of a journey that could redefine leadership in Maharashtra.

​The state is entering an era where women are not just campaigners or legislators but are taking the lead in the executive branch. Whether she is tackling issues of rural development, sports infrastructure, or state revenue, Sunetra Pawar now has the platform to make a lasting impact.

​The road ahead is long and likely filled with hurdles, but for today, the focus remains on the historic step she is taking. Maharashtra finally has its first woman Deputy Chief Minister, and the eyes of the nation are on her as she begins this unprecedented journey.