Sunetra Pawar Takes Oath as Maharashtra’s First Woman Deputy Chief Minister, Pledges to Carry Forward Ajit Pawar’s Legacy

Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Friday, marking a historic moment as she became the first woman to assume the post in the State. Her elevation comes amid deep personal loss, following the recent death of her husband and former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash earlier this week, an incident that has left a significant void in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

The oath-taking ceremony was held at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai and was administered by Governor Acharya Devvrat. The event was brief and sombre, attended by senior leaders of the ruling Mahayuti alliance, party workers and family members. Sunetra Pawar took the oath clad in a white saree, reflecting the gravity of the moment. Emotional scenes were witnessed as supporters raised slogans in memory of the late leader, underscoring the strong emotional connect Ajit Pawar had built over decades of public life.

In her first remarks after assuming office, Sunetra Pawar acknowledged the profound grief she and the State were experiencing. She said the untimely passing of her husband had cast a deep shadow over her personal life and Maharashtra’s politics, but stressed that his values and dedication to public service would guide her in her new role.

She described Ajit Pawar’s life as one devoted to farmers, labourers, women and youth, and said she would strive to honour that legacy with loyalty and commitment. Referring to the ideological foundations that shaped Maharashtra’s social and political movements, she invoked leaders such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule, Shahu Maharaj and Dr B.R. Ambedkar as sources of inspiration for her public service.

A New Chapter in State Politics

Sunetra Pawar’s induction into the State leadership marks a pivotal transition in Maharashtra politics. While she has largely remained away from active electoral politics in the past, her appointment signals continuity within the ruling alliance at a time of uncertainty. Senior leaders described her elevation as a step aimed at ensuring stability and maintaining the balance within the coalition government.

Addressing the people of Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar said the trust and support extended to her during this difficult period would be her greatest strength. She stated that she intended to transform personal grief into a renewed sense of purpose, working with determination to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to her.

Policy Priorities and Governance Agenda

Outlining her broad priorities, the new Deputy Chief Minister emphasised inclusive development and social justice. She said her focus would remain on building a society based on equality and fairness, strengthening opportunities for women and youth, and improving the living standards of farmers and marginalised communities.

She also underscored the need for administrative reforms aimed at making governance more sensitive, transparent and citizen-centric. According to her, public institutions must be responsive to the needs of ordinary people, particularly those in rural and economically weaker sections.

Working Within the Mahayuti Alliance

Sunetra Pawar will work alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in the Mahayuti government. She reiterated her commitment to cooperative governance and alignment with the broader national development agenda.

Referring to the Centre’s long-term vision, she said the Maharashtra government would contribute actively towards the goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047.” She also acknowledged the guidance of senior national leaders and recalled the contributions of Yashwantrao Chavan, regarded as one of the architects of modern Maharashtra, in shaping the State’s administrative and political foundations.

Portfolios and Immediate Responsibilities

While an official announcement on portfolio allocation is awaited, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to temporarily handle the Finance Department. Sunetra Pawar is likely to be assigned responsibilities related to Excise, Sports and Youth Welfare, sectors closely linked to social outreach and public engagement.

Political observers note that her role will be closely watched, given both the symbolic and practical significance of her appointment. As the first woman to hold the post of Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra, her tenure is expected to set new benchmarks for representation and leadership.

Message to the People

Concluding her address, Sunetra Pawar appealed to citizens for continued support and cooperation. She said she would work with renewed energy and hope to be worthy of the trust placed in her, keeping alive the principles and public service ethos associated with Ajit Pawar’s political journey.

As Maharashtra enters this new phase, the focus will remain on how the State leadership navigates governance challenges while managing the emotional and political transition following the loss of a senior leader.