NCP Leaders Push for Sunetra Ajit as Deputy CM; Baramati Bypoll Involves Sons
Following the tragic death of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is navigating a significant political shift. Senior party members are advocating for Sunetra Pawar, Ajit’s wife and Rajya Sabha MP, to take on a leadership role, potentially as Deputy CM.
NCP Leaders Advocate for Sunetra Pawar
Key figures in the NCP convened at Sunetra’s residence in Pune to express their condolences and encourage her return to political leadership. Notable attendees included party working president Praful Patel, state chief Sunil Tatkare, and cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal. They believe Sunetra can effectively lead the NCP’s Ajit Pawar faction and stabilize party dynamics during this transition.
Support for Sunetra’s Political Comeback
- Narhari Zirwal, a cabinet minister, publicly endorsed the idea of Sunetra’s return, highlighting strong support from the party base.
- Zirwal emphasized that constituents desire her involvement in the state cabinet discussions.
Party insiders revealed that a meeting is anticipated in Mumbai soon to elect the NCP legislature party leader. Ensuring stability is a top priority, reflecting the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
Baramati Bypolls and the Next Generation
In the wake of Ajit Pawar’s death, there are significant discussions regarding the upcoming Baramati bypolls. The local party office bearers are considering the candidacies of Ajit’s sons, Parth and Jay, to fill the political void left behind.
Potential Candidates
- Jay Pawar has been actively engaging with local units ahead of the 2024 elections.
- Parth Pawar previously contested and lost in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections for Maval.
With the NCP heavily intertwined with the Pawar family’s legacy, party insiders believe Sunetra could unify the faction, especially if a merger with rival factions does not materialize. They emphasize that having any member of Ajit Pawar’s family contest from Baramati might pose minimal challenge from opposition parties.
Looking Ahead for the NCP
While the future of the NCP remains uncertain, there are pressing calls for action. With pressures mounting on Sunetra to reassume a pivotal role, the political landscape of Maharashtra could reshape significantly in the coming months. The Pawar family’s influence, especially in Baramati, continues to play a defining role in the party’s direction.
