Mumbai: In a significant political development in Maharashtra, senior NCP leader Sunetra Pawar is likely to be sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Minister on Saturday, sources said.
Following the death of Ajit Pawar, a leadership vacuum has emerged within the NCP. Senior party leaders are said to have reached a consensus to entrust Sunetra Pawar with the responsibility to fill the gap. An official announcement is expected after the party’s legislature meeting scheduled to be held in Mumbai on Saturday. If all goes as planned, the oath-taking ceremony will take place the same day, sources added.
Senior NCP leaders Chhagan Bhujbal and Praful Patel have reportedly extended their support to Sunetra Pawar’s elevation.
Along with the post of Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar is expected to continue holding charge of the Excise and Sports departments. In view of the upcoming Budget Session, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has decided to retain the Finance portfolio with himself.
Party leaders are said to have proposed Sunetra Pawar’s name as part of efforts to strengthen the organisation ahead of the Pune Zilla Parishad elections scheduled for February 7.
Ajit Pawar had died in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28. His last rites were performed with full state honours on Thursday (January 29).
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