Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar, is set to create history as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy CM. The decision comes after consultations within the NCP leadership and signals continuity in governance following Ajit Pawar’s death.
The NCP has scheduled its Legislature Party meeting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Party legislators will formally elect Sunetra Pawar as the new Legislature Party leader during the meeting. She will replace Ajit Pawar, who played a key role in Maharashtra politics and coalition management.
Senior party sources said a small swearing-in ceremony will follow the meeting later in the day. The ceremony will likely take place in Mumbai in the presence of senior leaders from the ruling alliance. The development has already drawn wide political attention across the state.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that the Maharashtra government and the Bharatiya Janata Party will support the NCP’s decision. He stated that the coalition respects the NCP’s internal choice and will ensure smooth coordination within the government. His remarks underline the stability of the ruling alliance despite recent changes.
Sunetra Pawar’s elevation marks a significant milestone for women’s representation in Maharashtra politics. No woman has previously held the post of Deputy Chief Minister in the state. Political observers believe her appointment could encourage stronger participation of women in leadership roles across parties.
Although Sunetra Pawar has largely remained away from active electoral politics, she is known to be closely involved in organisational matters. Party leaders expect her to focus on governance, coordination among coalition partners, and welfare-related issues.
As Maharashtra prepares for this historic moment, attention will now turn to Sunetra Pawar’s priorities as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy CM and her role in shaping the government’s agenda in the months ahead.
