Following the passing of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Sunetra Pawar has assumed the role of National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on February 26. This move marks a significant shift in the state’s political landscape, signaling a clear divergence between the NCP and the Sharad Pawar-led faction. Party seniors have dubbed this transition as the beginning of the “Sunetra Era,” emphasizing the party’s independence from the Sharad Pawar camp.
Sunetra Pawar is set to lead the party on her own terms, aiming to uphold her late husband’s political legacy and ideology while focusing on strengthening the party organization. During her inaugural speech at an NCP convention in Mumbai, she expressed a mix of emotions and determination. Promising to fulfill Ajit Pawar’s objectives, she highlighted the influence of prominent figures like Rajarshi Shahu, Jyotirao Phule, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on the party’s policies.
The convention witnessed a shift in tone towards Sharad Pawar, with senior leaders indicating a growing divide between the two factions. NCP’s working president, Praful Patel, questioned the authority of the rival camp, asserting the party’s autonomy in decision-making. Additionally, senior minister Chhagan Bhujbal criticized the haste of the Sharad Pawar group, accusing them of prematurely discussing a merger even before Ajit Pawar’s last rites.
The NCP has further solidified its familial ties by nominating Parth Pawar, the elder son of Ajit and Sunetra, as a candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in March. With the necessary legislative support within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, the NCP is poised for success. Conversely, Sharad Pawar’s re-election to the Rajya Sabha faces uncertainty, relying heavily on the collective backing of the Maha Vikas Aghadi.
