Hours after the funeral of Ajit Pawar, senior NCP leaders meet Sunetra Pawar, igniting speculation over party leadership and future roles.
Senior NCP Leaders Meet Sunetra Pawar
Hours after the funeral of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, several senior leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) held a courtesy meeting with his wife, Sunetra Pawar — a sitting member of the Rajya Sabha. The meeting, attended by prominent figures including Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal and Dhananjay Munde, has triggered political speculation about succession and leadership continuity in the party.
While Mr. Bhujbal described the gathering as a courtesy visit with no immediate political discussions, party circles believe the meeting could signal early consultations on filling the leadership space left by Ajit Pawar.
Talk of Political Roles and Future Leadership
Ajit Pawar’s sudden death has created a leadership vacuum within the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), prompting discussions on how to navigate the party’s future in Maharashtra’s complex political landscape. Analysts and insiders suggest that the focus is now on Sunetra Pawar, whose political profile and familial ties position her as a potential successor.
Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP, has been active in the party’s organisational work and remains a respected figure among party workers. Reports also suggest she may be considered for a cabinet role in the Maharashtra government, possibly even the Deputy Chief Minister post previously held by her late husband — a move seen as both a tribute and a strategic decision to maintain continuity.
Other Possible Succession Scenarios
Besides Sunetra Pawar, political observers say several other names are emerging in succession discussions:
- Parth Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s son, who could contest the vacated Baramati Assembly seat and play a future electoral role.
- Senior leaders such as Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal and Sunil Tatkare may guide the party during this transitional phase, given their organisational experience and stature within the NCP.
There are also early talks about potential discussions with the rival faction of the NCP led by Sharad Pawar, whose group remains influential in Maharashtra politics and could converge with Ajit Pawar’s faction as part of a broader strategic realignment.
Political Context and Emotional Backdrop
Ajit Pawar’s funeral in Baramati saw strong emotional responses from across the political spectrum, with leaders from both ruling and opposition parties paying tribute. The gathering highlighted his decades-long influence on Maharashtra politics and the respect he commanded even among rivals.
In this climate of grief and political uncertainty, party insiders are under pressure to provide stability and direction, while ensuring that Pawar’s legacy continues to resonate with voters.
Also Read : From Pramod Mahajan to Ajit Pawar: Deaths That Changed the Course of Maharashtra Politics
