Sunetra Pawar's Appointment as Deputy CM: A Calculated Political Move
The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has made a decisive move by appointing Sunetra Pawar as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, just days after the passing of her husband, Ajit Pawar. This swift decision is widely viewed as a pre-emptive strategy designed to curb speculation surrounding the party's leadership and potential contenders for the position.
Endorsement from Senior Leadership and BJP
The appointment was finalized by senior NCP leaders and communicated to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has given his endorsement. Political analysts note that both the NCP and the BJP are keen on a rapid appointment to mitigate any political fallout resulting from Ajit Pawar's absence. This move comes ahead of the anticipated merger of the two NCP factions, which could introduce new demands from the Sharad Pawar camp.
Merger Talks and Internal Dynamics
Discussions about merging the NCP factions have gained momentum after they collaborated in recent local body elections. Following Ajit Pawar's death, some NCP leaders have openly advocated for a merger under Sharad Pawar's guidance. However, this proposal has not been universally welcomed, with concerns that it might lead to the senior Pawar assuming control or his faction seeking a greater stake in the government.
Strategic Timing and Portfolio Considerations
For now, Sunetra Pawar, who serves as a Rajya Sabha MP, is expected to be elected as the NCP's legislature party leader before assuming the deputy CM role. She may initially remain without a portfolio until a cabinet reshuffle occurs. According to sources, there is a concerted effort to expedite the process and fill these key positions promptly to prevent any power vacuum.
"There is a bid to hasten the process and fill up the deputy CM and NCP legislature party leaders posts as soon as possible," a source revealed. "This is being done before any talk of the imminent merger of the two NCP factions. If the merger happens and these posts remain vacant, new leaders from NCP (SP) could enter the fray, potentially shifting control away from the current leadership."
BJP's Role and Future Implications
The BJP's central leadership will play a crucial role in endorsing these appointments, with any decision requiring their consent. Additionally, the finance portfolio, previously held by Ajit Pawar, is likely to remain with Chief Minister Fadnavis, who will present the upcoming state budget. Sunetra Pawar will have a six-month window from her swearing-in to secure election to the state legislature, adding another layer to the political dynamics.
This appointment underscores the NCP's desire to consolidate its position and maintain stability within the alliance, especially with the state budget session approaching and potential merger talks on the horizon.
