Mumbai, Jan 28 (NationPress) Ajit Anantrao Pawar, affectionately known as 'Dada', was a formidable presence in the political arena of Maharashtra, distinguished for his administrative prowess, forthright manner of communication, and his recent impact on the state's political dynamics. He held the position of Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra (marking his sixth non-consecutive term) within the Mahayuti coalition, headed by Devendra Fadnavis (Chief Minister) and Eknath Shinde (Deputy CM). In addition, he held the esteemed title of National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

In early 2024, the Election Commission of India officially acknowledged his faction as the 'true' NCP, awarding him the party name and the 'Clock' symbol. He was responsible for overseeing vital governmental departments such as Finance and Planning, effectively managing the state's budget.

Representing the Baramati Assembly constituency since 1991, Dada was re-elected seven times, each victory marked by significant margins. His influence was deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s cooperative sector.

Dada held the position of chairman at the Pune District Central Cooperative Bank (PDC) for 16 years, wielding considerable authority over sugar cooperatives and milk unions. He occupied nearly every significant ministerial role in Maharashtra, encompassing Water Resources, Power, and Rural Development, under various Chief Ministers, including Vilasrao Deshmukh, Ashok Chavan, Prithviraj Chavan, and Uddhav Thackeray.

Ajit Pawar’s political significance was characterized by his readiness to undertake bold and often contentious actions.

In a surprising turn of events, he took the oath as Deputy CM alongside BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis during an early morning ceremony in November 2019. However, this government lasted a mere 80 hours before he realigned with his uncle, Sharad Pawar. In July 2023, he instigated a significant split within the NCP, aligning himself with the Eknath Shinde-led government, thereby posing a direct challenge to the 25-year leadership of his uncle and mentor. He was highly regarded by bureaucrats for his 'pro-active' approach.

Ajit Pawar was known for his early start to the day, often beginning at 6:00 a.m., and for making immediate decisions. His public persona was that of a decisive leader, often responding to citizens with clear 'yes' or 'no' answers rather than vague commitments.

Despite his stronghold in state politics, Ajit Pawar’s career was overshadowed by allegations linked to the Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scam and the Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank case. Nevertheless, he has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has received various legal approvals.

Ajit was the nephew of veteran leader Sharad Pawar. Although the family experienced a challenging political divide, recent reports in 2026 indicate possible tactical alliances or 'friendly competitions' between the two NCP factions during local elections, thereby preserving the family's overall influence in the sugar belt.

He was married to Sunetra Pawar, who is also involved in social and political initiatives in Baramati. Following his defeat in the Lok Sabha to his cousin and NCP-SP candidate Supriya Sule from the Baramati constituency, Ajit Pawar named his wife, Sunetra, to the Rajya Sabha.

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)