Sunetra Pawar: The Quiet Force in Maharashtra's Political Landscape
In the dynamic and often tumultuous world of Maharashtra politics, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar has always stood out for her understated presence. While her late husband, NCP chief Ajit Pawar, was renowned for his mercurial political maneuvers and sharp rhetoric, and his cousin Supriya Sule for her vibrant energy and outspokenness, Sunetra embodied a different ethos—one of reserve, composure, and measured deliberation.
The Early Years: A Life Away from the Political Fray
Sunetra Pawar, née Patil, hails from a political family in Dharashiv, yet she deliberately steered clear of active politics even after marrying Ajit Pawar and moving to Baramati. For years, her focus remained on her sons' education, necessitating a stay in Mumbai, which kept her distant from the political hustle of her marital home. It was only after her children left for college that she began to immerse herself in the social fabric of Baramati.
Always seen in elegantly draped sarees, Sunetra earned the affectionate title of Baramati's vahini (sister-in-law), a role she embraced with grace and dignity. Her initial foray into public life was not through politics but through social and ecological initiatives, as well as cultural festivals, where she worked quietly behind the scenes.
Stepping into Public Service: The Foundation of Her Work
Her formal engagement with community service began in 2004 with the Nirmal Gram Yojana, a central government scheme aimed at promoting sanitation. As Sheetal Kale from the NCP unit in Katewadi—Ajit Pawar's ancestral village, located about 10 kilometers from Baramati town—recalls, "Ajitdada wanted to first make Katewadi an open defecation-free village, and vahini took up the responsibility." This project marked the start of her hands-on involvement in grassroots development.
Her role expanded significantly when Ajit Pawar initiated a textile park in Baramati, appointing Sunetra as its chairman. Today, this initiative employs over 15,000 women, showcasing her commitment to empowering local communities. "So, she is no stranger to working for the people," Kale emphasizes, highlighting how Sunetra's work ethic was built on tangible social contributions rather than political posturing.
The 2024 Lok Sabha Campaign: A Trial by Fire
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections thrust Sunetra Pawar into the political spotlight in an unprecedented manner. When Supriya Sule made a veiled attack on Sunetra's potential candidature from the Baramati constituency, questioning whether voters wanted "someone who sits quietly while her husband speaks" or an assertive representative, it was a deeply personal provocation. Yet, Sunetra maintained her characteristic silence, refusing to engage in public sparring even after her candidature was announced.
During her campaign, she openly acknowledged her inexperience in politics, choosing instead to seek votes in the name of her husband and his legacy. A close associate from her campaign noted her calm demeanor, saying, "When upset, she did not erupt. She either made a passive-aggressive comment or used slight sarcasm, leaving the person who slipped up with a quiet, sinking certainty: they were wrong, and she was hurt. But, she remembers." This subtlety contrasted sharply with the often-bombastic nature of political rallies.
Her campaign, however, revealed the challenges of her political novice status. She relied heavily on prepared notes, delivered similar speeches across venues, and struggled with the physical demands of campaigning in Maharashtra's harsh summer heat, compounded by knee-related health issues. In contrast, Supriya Sule's seasoned approach and relentless canvassing led to a victory by 1.55 lakh votes, underscoring the gap in political experience.
A Natural in Intimate Settings: Connecting with Women and Communities
Where Sunetra truly shone was in smaller gatherings, particularly with women. These settings felt like an extension of her social work, allowing her to discuss education, job opportunities, and self-help group loans without the pressure of performing politics. "In those rooms, she did not have to perform politics, only speak the language she already knew," observes a political analyst. Her comfort in these spaces highlighted her genuine connection to grassroots issues, even if her performance in large rallies remained hesitant.
Rajendra Dhawan, former vice chairman of Malegaon Sugar Factory, attests to her behind-the-scenes efficacy: "Whenever Dada was not in Baramati, was busy with his duties as deputy chief minister or as the head of NCP, it is vahini that everyone met. She would listen to the problems, consult with her PA, either find a solution or take the problems to her husband. Don't underestimate her."
Navigating New Political Alignments and Legacy
Sunetra's political journey took a significant turn with Ajit Pawar's death, transforming her image from a peripheral figure to a symbol of endurance. Her attendance at a Kangana Ranaut-hosted RSS event drew criticism, but she responded not with counter-attacks but by reaffirming her commitment to the Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar ideology, signaling that her new political alliances would not compromise her social values.
Now, as Deputy Chief Minister, she faces the daunting task of filling the void left by her husband. In her first media post after assuming office, she acknowledged the enormity of this responsibility, pledging to continue Ajit Pawar's work by remaining "loyal to the thoughts of Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar to build a just, equal and developed Maharashtra." This statement subtly asserts the NCP's individuality within its coalition with right-wing parties, even in Ajit Pawar's absence.
The Future: Will She Embrace Politics or Remain a Reluctant Participant?
The question looming over Baramati and Maharashtra is whether Sunetra Pawar will evolve into a seasoned politician or remain a softer face in the BJP-NCP arrangement. Supporters like Vishal Jadhav, NCP's former city unit president in Baramati, draw parallels to historical figures: "When Indira Gandhi entered politics, she was called goongi gudia. She became one of the most powerful Prime Ministers. People who don't know vahini think she shies away from politics. But she has seen it all."
Rohit Taware, a long-time associate of Ajit Pawar, adds, "Her father is Bajirao Patil, she is Padamsinh Patil's sister and the wife of Ajit Pawar, which means she has never stayed away from politics for a single day in her life. Just because she doesn't raise her voice doesn't mean she is naïve. Filling Dada's shoes is tough, but she deserves a chance."
As Baramati watches her next moves, the community that first knew her as vahini now contemplates whether she will actively choose politics or continue to be chosen by circumstances. Her journey from a reserved family member to a key political figure underscores a narrative of quiet resilience, challenging conventional notions of what it takes to succeed in India's complex political arena.
