Pune: Sunetra Pawar’s elevation as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra has sparked mixed reactions across Baramati and on social media. Critics have questioned the timing of the transition, coming just days after the tragic death of her husband, former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, in an air crash on Jan 28.
Several residents of Baramati and the surrounding rural areas of Pune district said the swearing-in felt hurried and insensitive to the prevailing atmosphere of grief. Many noted that they were still reeling from the sudden loss of their long-time leader.“Was it necessary to take this step right now? People in Baramati are still in shock; most of us have yet to process the news of his death,” said Akash Kokare, a local resident. Another resident, Shantaram Devkate, argued that the family and supporters should have been granted more time to complete traditional rituals and mourn before a major political shift was orchestrated.The move also drew sharp criticism online. On X (formerly Twitter), users debated whether political urgency was being prioritised over public sentiment. An user, Smita Deshmukh, posted that the move reflected “political survival overtaking grief,” adding that in family-led parties, “lineage often takes precedence over mourning.”Furthermore, some residents expressed discomfort over celebratory visuals shared online by certain leaders of Ajit Pawar’s faction, noting a stark contrast to the somber mood currently gripping the town.However, a segment of party workers and loyalists defended the decision as a strategic necessity for organisational stability. They argued that Sunetra Pawar, having worked alongside her husband for decades, possesses the deep understanding of governance and party structure required to lead in his absence.“Dada always said one must not cry but fight during difficult times. By taking this step, Sunetra vahini did the right thing. We will support her just as we supported dada,” said Ranjana Jagtap, a Baramati resident.Supporters from across the district echoed this sentiment. Akash Shinde from Daund noted, “She worked with Dada for decades. While she may need time to find her footing, she will eventually prove to be an effective administrator.” Similarly, Santosh Dumbre, a party worker from Junnar, said her long association with Ajit Pawar provided her with invaluable insight into his decision-making style.Local leaders from the NCP in Pune district framed the move as a “constitutional and administrative necessity” to ensure political stability. A senior leader from Shirur tehsil added that such transitions within political families are not unprecedented in Indian politics and should be viewed through the lens of continuity.
