New Delhi: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar formally began her ministerial responsibilities at the state secretariat on Tuesday, nearly two weeks after the tragic death of her husband Ajit Pawar in an air crash. Later in the day, she participated in her first cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Sunetra Pawar travelled to Mumbai from Pune in the morning and started the day with visits to the Siddhivinayak temple and the memorial of Dr B. R. Ambedkar at Chaityabhoomi. She then met leaders and legislators of the Nationalist Congress Party at the party office before proceeding to Mantralaya to assume charge. Her elder son Parth Pawar and several senior party figures were present during the occasion.
After taking over her duties, the Deputy Chief Minister shared an emotional message, saying she felt a strong sense of responsibility and public trust. She stated that the lifelong dedication of Ajit Pawar to Maharashtra’s progress would remain her guiding force. According to her, continuing the development agenda and serving the people with sincerity would be the best tribute to his memory.
Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on December 31, only days after the fatal accident that claimed Ajit Pawar’s life in Pune district. She has been entrusted with the departments of State Excise Duty, Sports and Youth Affairs, and Minorities Development and Auqaf, portfolios previously managed by her husband except for the finance ministry.
She assured citizens that her priority would be to fulfil the expectations of farmers, women, youth and ordinary families. While acknowledging that no one could replace Ajit Pawar, she expressed determination to protect his legacy and work toward building a stronger Maharashtra. She also thanked people for the support shown to her family during a painful period.
Her nephew and legislator Rohit Pawar reacted with mixed emotions to the development. He described the moment as personally heartbreaking due to Ajit Pawar’s absence, yet welcomed Sunetra Pawar’s decision to shoulder the responsibility. He expressed confidence that she would work in line with the ideals of great social reformers and focus on the welfare of common citizens.
Rohit Pawar further said that many party workers across the state hoped she would eventually take over the national leadership of the organisation, reflecting the faith placed in her by grassroots supporters.
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