Eknath Shinde

On this news bulletin, an Unidentified speaker, serving as the National General Secretary of the NCP, addresses the controversial appointment of Sunetra Pawar as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. The speaker states, 'It is the right time to take the right decision because today or tomorrow it was going to be happen,' justifying the move as a response to public sentiment and worker demands. During the interview, the spokesperson categorically denies allegations of 'parivarwaad' (dynasty politics) and rejects claims that the decision was orchestrated by the BJP to prevent a merger with Sharad Pawar’s faction. The discussion highlights the internal dynamics of the Mahayuti alliance, with the spokesperson asserting that the party leadership, including Praful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal, acted independently to fulfill the mandate given by the public under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In this special report, the focus is on the sudden political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move congratulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister stated, 'I'm confident she will work tirelessly for the welfare of the people of the state and fulfill the vision of late Ajit Dada Pawar.' The bulletin explores the internal dynamics of the NCP Ajit Pawar faction and the potential for a merger with the Sharad Pawar group. While Sunetra Pawar takes over portfolios like Excise and Minority Affairs, the crucial Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ahead of the state budget. The programme further analyzes the impact of this leadership change on upcoming local body polls and the strategic power balance within the Mahayuti alliance involving the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

This report covers the political developments in Maharashtra following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar in a tragic airplane crash. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, filling the vacancy left by her late husband. During the proceedings, NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule reportedly refused to answer questions from the press regarding the oath ceremony. NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar, when questioned about the appointment, stated, 'I do not know this is a decision that has been taken by the party internally,' suggesting a lack of consensus within the family and the broader political factions. The transition occurs amidst speculation regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions, a move previously associated with Ajit Pawar's wishes. Sunetra Pawar now joins the state cabinet alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while senior members of the Pawar family remained absent from the official ceremony.

In a significant political development, Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The appointment follows the tragic demise of her husband, Ajit Pawar, in a road accident on 28th January. During the solemn ceremony at Lok Bhawan, supporters were heard chanting 'Ajit Dada Amar Rahe' as the new Deputy CM signed the official documents. The broadcast highlights the immense responsibility now resting on Sunetra Pawar to keep the NCP flock together and manage key portfolios, including the upcoming budget session. While speculation regarding a merger with the Sharad Pawar-led faction continues to swirl, party insiders suggest the immediate priority remains government stability. The program notes that Sunetra Pawar will likely vacate her Rajya Sabha seat to focus on her new role in the state cabinet. Senior leaders and family members, including her sons Parth and Jay, were present as the party unanimously backed her leadership to ensure the continuity of Ajit Pawar's political legacy.

Sunetra Pawar, wife of late NCP (AP) chief Ajit Pawar, was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at a ceremony in Mumbai’s Lok Bhavan on Saturday. Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

This Special Report, hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai, examines the political transition in Maharashtra following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an air crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP, has been appointed as his successor, making her the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 5 pm on Saturday. Sunetra Pawar will manage the Excise and Sports portfolios, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis temporarily assumes the Finance portfolio. The program analyzes internal National Congress Party (NCP) dynamics, featuring support from leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal. Panelists including Shaina NC, Sanjay Jha, and Jayant Mainkar discuss whether this appointment is a strategic move by the BJP to prevent an NCP faction merger or a recognition of Pawar's grassroots work in Baramati. The report includes archival footage where Sunetra Pawar discusses the NCP split as a battle of ideologies. This coverage provides insights into the Pawar family legacy and Maharashtra's evolving political landscape.

On this Special Report, Rajdeep Sardesai leads a panel discussion on the sudden appointment of Sunetra Pawar as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar. The debate centers on whether this move signifies the persistence of 'family politics' within the NCP or represents a milestone for women in leadership. Rajdeep Sardesai notes, 'Whether that will translate into Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra will be a question mark' while questioning the 'unseemly hurry' behind the swearing-in ceremony. The panel, featuring journalists and politicians like Shaina NC and Asif Bhamla, explores the BJP's role in this transition and the potential for a merger between the rival NCP factions. The program scrutinizes the political vacuum left by Ajit Pawar and how Sunetra Pawar, described as having 'learned politics by osmosis,' aims to unify the party cadre amidst ongoing state mourning and shifting alliances in Maharashtra's volatile political landscape.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the shifting political landscape of Maharashtra following the reported death of Ajit Pawar. An Unidentified speaker analyzes the potential merger of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions and the leadership vacuum left behind. The speaker notes, 'I think is the only person who has the stature to bring together the NCP on one platform.' The discussion highlights the central role of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in determining the next Deputy Chief Minister and the future of the Mahayuti alliance. The programme explores whether Sunetra Pawar or other senior leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal will step up, while emphasizing that the BJP, led by Devendra Fadnavis and Amit Shah, remains the dominant force controlling the state's political narrative. The Unidentified speaker also reflects on previous failed unity attempts between Sharad Pawar and the NDA, suggesting the NCP now faces a battle for its own relevance.

This special report examines the sudden leadership vacuum within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. The programme explores the 'succession, survival, and strategy' required to navigate the complex political landscape of Maharashtra. A key point of discussion is the potential reunification of the two NCP factions, with senior leaders suggesting that 'reunification was Ajit Pawar's final wish.' The report highlights Sunetra Pawar as a likely interim heir apparent for the Baramati Assembly seat and a contender for the Deputy Chief Minister post. Analysts, including consulting editor Rajdeep Sardesai, discuss the role of the BJP in shaping the future of the NCP and the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. The discussion underscores the existential crisis facing the party as it balances internal power struggles with the need for political relevance in the state's dominant coalition.

On this India Today special report, senior NCP (SP) leader and former minister Eknath Khadse reveals that the merger between the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party had been finalised prior to the latter's sudden demise. Khadse stated, 'The merger of both NCP factions has been finalised,' noting that the move was intended to follow local body elections. The transcript details how both factions had already begun contesting local polls as an alliance against the BJP using the 'clock' symbol. Journalist Sahil Joshi adds that the late Ajit Pawar had hinted at this reunification during a January 2026 interview, suggesting the merger would involve supporting the NDA government at both State and Central levels. The report further notes that Sharad Pawar is set to retire from the Rajya Sabha in April 2026, which was expected to facilitate a smoother transition for the unified party under the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.

On this Special Report, India Today's Sahil Joshi discusses the political landscape in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Sahil Joshi notes, 'The proposal which they are trying to put forward to the BJP, the Chief Minister, is basically that Sunetra Pawar should be contesting the Baramati Assembly by-poll'. The transcript details a high-level meeting involving NCP leaders Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Sunil Tatkare with Sunetra Pawar to discuss the future of the party and the vacant Baramati seat. Beyond the assembly seat, there is a proposal to induct Sunetra Pawar as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, a role previously held by her late husband. Sahil Joshi also highlights that Praful Patel, as the working president, currently stands as the senior-most leader to navigate merger talks with the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction. The final decision remains subject to consultations with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

This special report covers the final rites of Ajit Pawar being conducted at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati. The transcript highlights the emotional scenes as the Pawar family, including Sunetra Pawar, Parth Pawar, and Jai Pawar, pay their last respects. A significant moment is noted between Supriya Sule and Sunetra Pawar, who stood together despite their past political face-off in the Lok Sabha elections. The speaker notes, 'The family, the political divide blurred by what has been deep love within the family and that void today is filled by the outpouring of grief.' The programme reflects on Ajit Pawar's legacy as a 'mercurial leader' who transformed Baramati into a model constituency. The report details the public nature of the bereavement, with a three-day mourning period announced in the region as the community gathers to say goodbye to the leader they affectionately called 'Dada'.

This news report covers the solemn final rites of veteran Maharashtra leader Ajit Pawar in Baramati. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were in attendance to pay their condolences to the bereaved family, including Sharad Pawar, Sunetra Pawar, and Jai Pawar. The speaker noted the emotional atmosphere, stating, 'You can actually see that pall of gloom that has descended on Baramati, broken by chance of Ajit Dada Amar Rahe and then abject silence.' The bulletin highlights Ajit Pawar's three-decade-long political career as an eight-time MLA and his significant role in the state legislature. Thousands of supporters gathered to bid farewell to the leader, with Baramati observing a complete shutdown in grief. The report also mentions the presence of the Goa Chief Minister and the support provided by Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule to the family during the state funeral.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the final rites of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati. Following his tragic demise in a plane crash, the state has declared a three-day mourning period. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reached Vidya Pratishthan to pay their respects, where full state honours are being accorded. An unidentified speaker and former NCP colleague paid tribute, stating, 'He was our leader and we used to love him... he had absolute control over the administration.' The programme highlights the arrival of various political dignitaries, including Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray, and Home Minister Amit Shah. The report reflects on Ajit Pawar's legacy as a regional satrap and his significant contribution to Maharashtra's administration and political landscape. The atmosphere in Baramati remains somber as citizens and leaders gather to bid farewell to the 66-year-old leader.

On this Special Report, correspondent Abhijit Karamde provides live updates from Baramati following the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. The mortal remains of the NCP leader were kept at his native village, Kathewadi, for family respects before being moved for public viewing. Karamde notes the 'bitter irony' of the leader's passing, stating, 'they identified his body by the watch which he was wearing in his hand and incidentally, coincidentally, watch is a symbol of NCP'. The report details the massive preparations at the Vidya Pratishthan ground for the funeral, which is expected to be attended by Union Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. The programme reflects on Pawar's 35-year political legacy, his eight consecutive electoral wins in Baramati since 1995, and the deep grief shared by his supporters across Western Maharashtra as the DGCA forensic team continues its investigation at the crash site.

On this special report, the focus is on the funeral proceedings in Baramati following a tragic incident. An unidentified speaker provides live details from the Vidya Pratishthan grounds, where state honours are being prepared. The speaker notes that Supriya Sule has reached Katewadi as the mortal remains are brought to the native village. Highlighting the leader's legacy, the speaker states, 'The irony is Ajit Pawar was a people's man, Ajit Pawar was a people's leader, he was very committed towards Baramati'. The transcript details how the leader was identified by his watch, a symbol of the NCP, and mentions his disciplined work ethic, often starting his day at 6 am. Dignitaries including Union Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are expected to attend the last rites. The programme reflects on the leader's 25-year political journey and his deep connection with the grassroots masses in Maharashtra.

This special report covers the final journey of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, who passed away in a tragic air crash. The state is preparing to bid farewell to the mass-connected leader in his 'Karmabhoomi', Baramati. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the demise as 'shocking' and 'saddening', while Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are expected to pay their respects. The funeral procession is scheduled to begin at 9 am, with the cremation taking place at 11 am. Supporters and party workers from across Maharashtra have gathered in Baramati for the 'Antim Darshan' of the leader who dominated state politics for decades. The programme highlights the outpouring of grief from local residents and political stalwarts, including Sharad Pawar, as the nation mourns the loss of a significant political figure.

This India First special report provides a factual account of the fatal aircraft crash involving Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. On Wednesday at 08:44 hours, a Learjet 45 originating from Mumbai crashed at the threshold of the Baramati airport tabletop runway.

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, died on Wednesday when a private jet he was flying in crashed in Baramati. All five on board were killed in the crash of the plane which was reduced to ashes. Top political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mourned Pawar’s untimely demise, which has left a huge political void in the state. What next now for NCP? Will the NCP faction come together now? Panelists discuss on To The Point.

On this India Today special report, Consulting Editor Rajdeep Sardesai reflects on the political legacy and sudden demise of NCP leader Ajit Pawar. Sardesai notes that while Pawar was a 'very able administrator' who understood his ministries well, he was also 'very impatient' and 'never hid his ambition' to become the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The discussion explores how Pawar’s death impacts the Mahayuti alliance, particularly the relationship between Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde. Sardesai describes Pawar as a 'truly rooted politician' with a deep connection to Baramati, despite a legacy splintered by allegations of corruption and his eventual break from uncle Sharad Pawar. The programme also features insights from Shaina NC, who remembers Pawar as one of Maharashtra's finest administrators who rose through the ranks to become Deputy Chief Minister multiple times. The panel examines the potential fragmentation of the NCP and the future stability of the state government following this significant loss to Maharashtra's political landscape.