Supriya Sule

This Special Report hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai examines the significant political shift in Maharashtra following the death of Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, has been sworn in as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move occurring three days after the tragedy. While the NCP leadership attributes this appointment to public sentiment, family patriarch Sharad Pawar and various critics have raised questions regarding transparency and the timing of the elevation. The programme features analysis from Sahil Joshi and Rohit Sandhavarkar on whether Sunetra Pawar can maintain independent control or if she will be influenced by senior leaders like Praful Patel. Concurrently, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assumed the finance and planning portfolios, consolidating BJP influence within the Mahayuti coalition. The discussion explores the historical context of political legacies, the internal dynamics of the Pawar family, and the administrative challenges facing the new Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape.

In a historic move for Maharashtra politics, Sunetra Pawar has taken oath as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The elevation follows the tragic demise of NCP leader Ajit Pawar in a recent plane crash. During the transition, party leaders and close aides rallied behind her, with the speaker noting, 'Sunetra Pawar, widow of the late Ajit Pawar, has taken oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, making history as the first woman to hold the post.' The report highlights her background as the daughter of Padam Singh Patil and her previous role as a Rajya Sabha MP. Despite her 2024 electoral loss in Baramati to Supriya Sule, she now steps into a central leadership role within the Mahayuti Coalition. The programme examines whether she can maintain control over the party and the Pawar family legacy during this period of intense political churn and emotional transition for the state of Maharashtra.

This special report examines the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra following a high-profile meeting at Sharad Pawar's Baramati residence on 17th January. The report highlights that while the Sharad Pawar faction views a potential NCP reunion as 'Ajit Dada's last wish', the rival faction has officially denied any such merger talks. The transcript reveals that a tentative date of 12th February had been set for the merger before the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. Furthermore, the Pawar patriarch expressed surprise regarding the elevation of Sunetra Pawar to the post of Deputy Chief Minister, stating he was unaware of the development. The programme features insights into the discussions involving senior leaders like Supriya Sule and explores whether the two factions will reconcile or continue to drift apart. As the political drama unfolds, the future of the Nationalist Congress Party remains uncertain amidst conflicting claims from both sides of the Pawar family.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the intensifying political drama within the Pawar family following Sunetra Pawar's oath-taking ceremony as the Deputy Chief Minister. The Unidentified speaker reports that Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar, and Rohit Pawar were notably absent and uninvited to the ceremony. When questioned about the development, Supriya Sule repeatedly responded with 'Ram Krishna Hari', choosing to remain silent on the family's political shift. The Unidentified speaker noted, 'She just said Ram Krishna Hari That's how she concluded and she avoided to speak over it.' The report highlights a meeting between Sule and Ajit Pawar's mother, Asha Tai, in Kathewadi shortly before the ceremony. Despite the family interactions following the reported passing of Ajit Pawar, the political divide remains prominent. The programme explores the uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the ongoing disagreement expressed by Sharad Pawar regarding these fast-moving political developments.

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.

This news report covers the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative meeting in Mumbai, where Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the CLP leader. Following the proposal by Dilip Walse Patil and support from top leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, she is set to become Maharashtra's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The reporter notes, 'Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister' at 5 PM today. The transition follows her resignation as a Member of Parliament. While the Ajit Pawar faction solidifies its leadership, questions regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions remain unanswered. The swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan is expected to be a concise event attended by major political figures. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule are reportedly holding a separate meeting in Pune. The broadcast highlights Sunetra Pawar's new role in leading the faction forward, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been unanimously chosen as the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader during a meeting in Mumbai. The proposal for her leadership was moved by Chhagan Bhujbal and received full support from the faction. Sunetra Pawar is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her swearing-in ceremony scheduled for 5 PM today. She will take over portfolios previously held by her husband, including State Excise and Sports, while the Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the interim period. The broadcast highlights that 'Sunetra Pawar will now lead the way forward when it comes to the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP' as the party seeks a smooth transition and continuity. Meanwhile, merger talks and meetings led by Sharad Pawar in Pune continue to shape the future of the NCP.

This news report covers the evolving political landscape within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. The reporter notes that 'final meeting about merger held on 17th of January' and that technicalities were being addressed by leaders from both factions. Discussions are currently underway at Govind Bagh, where Sharad Pawar has initiated conversations with Parth Pawar, Supriya Sule, and other family members. Sunetra Pawar is positioned as a central figure in these negotiations, having held talks with Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and political strategist Naresh Arora. The report highlights the shift in power dynamics within the Pawar family as they navigate the procedure of a political merger. While a CLP meeting and oath-taking ceremony are scheduled in Mumbai, the focus remains on whether the factions will unite and who will eventually succeed the leadership mantle held by the late Ajit Pawar.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the dramatic developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. Reporter Omkar Bhave provides an exclusive 'inside scoop' regarding a January 17 meeting held at Sharad Pawar’s residence, Govind Bagh, in Baramati. During this meeting, it was revealed that 'Ajit Pawar was completely keen for the merger' and had personally initiated the plan to unify the two NCP factions. The merger was reportedly finalised for February 12, following the Pune Zila Parishad elections. However, the current political landscape has shifted significantly. Sharad Pawar clarified that he was unaware of Sunetra Pawar’s potential elevation to Deputy Chief Minister, noting that decisions are being made by Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. A high-level meeting is currently underway in Baramati involving Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, and Yugendra Pawar to discuss the future of the party and Maharashtra politics amidst these contradictory developments.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the significant power transition in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Sources confirm that Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to become the state's next Deputy Chief Minister and is expected to be formally chosen as the NCP Legislative Party leader. During an interview, Sunetra Pawar stated, 'It is a battle of political thoughts, the relations are different, the politics are different.' She is slated to retain the state excise and sports portfolios, while the finance portfolio is expected to return to the NCP after the budget session. The transition comes after the high-profile 2024 Lok Sabha battle in Baramati where she faced Supriya Sule. The programme explores her emergence as the consensus face to lead the Pawar legacy into its next chapter, ensuring continuity and consolidation within the state's power corridors amidst a sudden succession vacuum.

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.

In this special report, India Today revisits an exclusive conversation with Sunetra Pawar regarding the high-stakes Baramati battle during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Speaking on the internal rift within the Pawar family following the 2023 NCP split, Sunetra Pawar clarified her stance on contesting against her sister-in-law, Supriya Sule. She stated, 'This is a political fight. The relations are different. The politics are different.' Pawar addressed allegations from Sharad Pawar regarding BJP pressure, asserting that her decision to enter the electoral fray after 40 years was rooted in supporting 'Dada' (Ajit Pawar) and meeting the demands of the people. She dismissed the notion of a family feud, maintaining that accusations and allegations are inherent to the political landscape. The interview explores her emotional response to being called an outsider and her perspective on the bitterness currently defining Maharashtra's political dynamics.

This edition of India First reports on a significant political transition in Maharashtra following the death of Ajit Pawar in a Baramati air crash. His wife, Sunetra Pawar, has been selected as the NCP Legislature Party leader and is scheduled to be sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. The program also examines the intensifying political conflict in Assam regarding illegal immigration. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reports that 64 lakh illegal infiltrators occupy seven districts, while Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma faces criticism for remarks concerning the Miya community. Executive Editor Kaushik Dekha analyzes the demographic shifts in Assam, noting that Muslim population growth between 2001 and 2011 suggests an external influx. The report features a debate between BJP and Congress representatives on ethnic profiling, national security, and the National Register of Citizens. It explores whether economic isolation and land restrictions serve as a defense for indigenous rights or represent political polarization ahead of elections amidst claims of a demographic invasion.

On this news bulletin, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic death of Ajit Pawar in an air crash. Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her oath-taking ceremony scheduled for 5 pm tomorrow. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislature party will meet at 2 pm to formally elect her as the leader. Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP and founder of the Environmental Forum of India, will retain the excise and sports portfolios, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to take charge of the finance portfolio. The report also discusses the future of the proposed NCP merger, which was reportedly slated for February 2026. 'Sunetra Pawar was spoken to, yesterday she was consulted... and today she has given her acceptance,' noted the correspondent while discussing the leadership vacuum and the potential political realignment within the Mahayuti government.

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.

This special report examines the political vacuum in Maharashtra following the passing of Ajit Pawar. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is currently at a crossroads, with senior leaders including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal meeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to secure the party's grip on key cabinet portfolios like Finance and Excise. A significant development involves Sunetra Pawar, who is expected to be elected as the legislative party leader and may contest the vacant Baramati seat. The report notes that 'NCP has called a legislative party meeting and Sunetra Pawar is likely going to be elected as the leader of the party.' Furthermore, discussions regarding a potential merger with the Sharad Pawar faction, led by Eknath Khadse's indications, have surfaced. The Pawar family legacy remains central to the state's dynamics as the third generation, including Rohit Pawar and Parth Pawar, continues to navigate the evolving political landscape amidst these leadership transitions.

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 procession and state honours accorded to the late Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra in Baramati. The political fraternity, family members, and a sea of supporters gathered to pay their respects as the leader's mortal remains, adorned with flowers, were escorted to the Vidya Pratishthan ground. During the solemn ceremony, a family member 'appealed to people to rise above politics and not politicize the tragedy' as the nation bid an emotional farewell. Prominent figures including Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, and Rohit Pawar were present, visibly emotional during the final rites. The atmosphere remained somber as supporters chanted 'Ajit Dada Amar Rahe' along the route, reflecting the deep impact of his public service. The programme highlights the dignity and respect shown during the final journey of the towering leader, marking a poignant end to his legacy in Maharashtra's public life.