BJP Pledges Support for NCP's Leadership Decision in Maharashtra
In a significant political development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will fully support any decision made by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) regarding the appointment of a new Deputy Chief Minister. This announcement comes amid growing speculation that Sunetra Pawar, currently a Rajya Sabha MP, is poised to assume the role following the untimely death of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28.
Fadnavis Affirms Solidarity with NCP and Pawar Family
Speaking to reporters in Nagpur after a meeting with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Chief Minister Fadnavis emphasized the BJP's commitment to standing behind the NCP and the family of the late Ajit Pawar. "The NCP will take whatever decision it has to take for the post of deputy chief minister, and the government and BJP will support the decision," he stated unequivocally. Fadnavis further added, "I can only tell you that we are standing behind the family of Ajit Dada and NCP," highlighting a spirit of cooperation during this transitional period.
When questioned about formal proposals from the NCP, Fadnavis revealed that party leaders had engaged in two separate consultations with him to discuss their potential path forward. This indicates ongoing dialogue between the coalition partners as they navigate the leadership vacuum created by Ajit Pawar's tragic passing.
Sunetra Pawar Expected to Assume Deputy CM Role
According to reports from NCP insiders cited by PTI, Sunetra Pawar is anticipated to be sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister this Saturday. Sunetra Pawar, who serves as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Ajit Pawar, whose death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra's political landscape.
Senior NCP leader and Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal confirmed that the party has decided to elect Sunetra Pawar as the legislative party leader. "It was decided among us that we will give Sunetra Pawar's name as legislative party leader," Bhujbal stated. He detailed that a delegation including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, Dhananjay Munde, and himself met with Chief Minister Fadnavis to coordinate the swearing-in ceremony, with Fadnavis expressing no objections to proceeding promptly.
Addressing the State Budget and Mourning Period
Fadnavis also addressed concerns regarding the upcoming state budget, a portfolio previously managed by Ajit Pawar as Finance Minister. He noted that the late leader had already completed significant groundwork and preparation for the fiscal announcement. "I will personally look into it and complete the processes involved, and eventually we will decide what to do," Fadnavis assured, indicating a hands-on approach to ensure continuity in governance.
Bhujbal mentioned considerations around the mourning period following Ajit Pawar's death, noting that traditions vary, with some observing three days and others up to ten days. "Tatkare and Praful Bhai themselves are looking into it. Most likely, the decision will come in an hour or two," he added, suggesting that final arrangements were being expedited while respecting cultural sensitivities.
BJP's Success in Nagpur Municipal Elections
In a related development, Chief Minister Fadnavis shared details of his discussions with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari regarding the recent Nagpur Municipal Corporation election results. The BJP secured a decisive majority in the polls, and Fadnavis indicated that the selection for the Mayor’s office would be finalized through a collaborative effort involving local MLAs and party officials. This underscores the BJP's strong organizational presence in the region, even as it navigates coalition dynamics at the state level.
The political scenario in Maharashtra remains fluid, with the BJP's supportive stance aimed at maintaining stability in the ruling alliance. As the NCP moves to formalize Sunetra Pawar's appointment, all eyes are on the upcoming swearing-in ceremony and its implications for the state's governance and political future.
