Mumbai, Feb 2 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) remarked on Monday that Sunetra Pawar, newly appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, carries a multifaceted legacy. While her predecessor Ajit Pawar was celebrated for his administrative skills and oversight of the Finance and Planning ministries, the effectiveness of Sunetra remains to be evaluated.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece, 'Saamana', the Thackeray faction highlighted that the NCP's future appears uncertain, likening it to a boat adrift in turbulent waters, currently powered by the engine of Fadnavis.

“As the BJP sets its sights on a solo win in the upcoming 2029 Assembly elections, Sunetra Pawar faces the daunting challenge of proving she is more than just a 'Gungi Gudiya' (silent doll) and can sustain her party's distinct identity. Sunetra Pawar inherits a complex legacy. While Ajit Pawar was known for his administrative prowess and control over the Finance and Planning ministries, Sunetra's effectiveness remains to be seen. As the political dust settles, the prevailing sentiment remains: politics has truly become wicked,” the editorial stated.

The editorial pointed out that the shock of Ajit Pawar's demise was still fresh when the political strategies of Amit Shah and Devendra Fadnavis delivered another blow. Public sentiment regarding the timing of Sunetra Pawar’s swearing-in is mixed, as she took the oath before the embers of Ajit Pawar’s funeral pyre had cooled.

“While some expressed pride that Maharashtra has gained its first female Deputy Chief Minister, others observed that this position was not earned through personal merit. A prevailing question arises: at whose behest did this development occur? Sharad Pawar reacted calmly, stating he was unaware of the ceremony and emphasizing that Sunetra Pawar's party is autonomous, now led by figures like Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare,” the editorial remarked.

As per NCP Minister Hasan Mushrif, Sunetra Pawar was swiftly appointed to the leadership role to prevent party workers and MLAs from fragmenting following Dada’s (Ajit Pawar) death. The NCP is allied with the 'Sanatani' ideology of the BJP; conducting a celebratory oath ceremony while the family is still in mourning (Sutak) contradicts the principles of Hindutva. A rift exists between Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. Some members reportedly elevated Sunetra Pawar to the 'sub-throne' specifically to prevent the party from falling entirely under Patel's influence,” the editorial claimed.

The Thackeray faction indicated that Ajit Pawar held respect and affection for Sharad Pawar, and discussions to merge the two NCP factions were in motion. A conclusive decision was anticipated post the Zilla Parishad elections, but Ajit Pawar passed away before this could materialize. Leaders like Patel and Tatkare resist the merger, aligning with the agenda of Amit Shah and Fadnavis.

“Predictions suggest the BJP plans to contest the 2029 Assembly elections independently. Before then, numerous MLAs from the Shinde and Ajit Pawar factions may defect to the BJP. To transcend being merely a 'ceremonial' figure, Sunetra Pawar must emulate Ajit Pawar’s renowned work ethic, ability for public outreach, and the 'magic' of standing firm against the BJP. If she opts for effective leadership rather than remaining a 'silent doll', she may pose a challenge to Patel, Tatkare, and Bhujbal,” the editorial expressed.

In conclusion, the passing of Ajit Pawar has complicated both familial relations within the Pawar clan and the broader political landscape of the state. The editorial aptly notes, 'mourning periods come and go, but politics never halts -- even if it has become truly wretched.'