In Baramati, Jay Pawar, son of NCP leader Ajit Pawar, created buzz by endorsing his mother, Sunetra Pawar, as a potential Chief Ministerial candidate. He highlighted the growing support among party workers for Sunetra Pawar to lead in the 2029 Assembly elections. Jay Pawar expressed optimism about Sunetra Pawar contesting from Baramati in 2029 and becoming the Chief Minister.
Jay Pawar emphasized the grassroots demand for Sunetra Pawar’s leadership following her recent by-election victory in the Baramati Assembly constituency. He underlined the shift in perception among party workers, who now see her as a prospective leader of Maharashtra, not just a local figure or Deputy Chief Minister. While Jay Pawar acknowledged that the final decision rests with the party leadership, he stressed the strong desire within the party for Sunetra Pawar to helm Maharashtra in 2029.
Amid preparations for the 2029 electoral cycle, Jay Pawar engaged in extensive interactions with local Zilla Parishad groups and officials in Baramati. Analysts interpret this proactive engagement as groundwork to maintain NCP’s influence in the region. Jay Pawar’s endorsement of Sunetra Pawar as a CM candidate coincides with her rising political prominence, marked by her role as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister and electoral success in 2026. This move is seen as a strategic effort to present a fresh image for the NCP ahead of future elections.
Responding to Jay Pawar’s statements, BJP legislator Pravin Darekar acknowledged the sentiments expressed by party workers but emphasized the importance of electoral numbers. Shiv Sena minister Bharat Gogawale and State Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant highlighted the need to wait until 2029 to observe political developments and the significance of public support in determining leadership mandates.
