Sunetra Pawar elected NCP national president
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 26, 2026
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The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has elected Sunetra Pawar as its new national president, marking a significant shift in the party's leadership. This comes after the tragic passing of her husband, Ajit Pawar, who was both the NCP's national president and Maharashtra's deputy chief minister before his death in a private plane crash on January 28. Sunetra Pawar, who had recently been elected as the leader of the NCP's legislative party, was sworn in as Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister just hours after Ajit's passing.
Ajit Pawar’s untimely death created a leadership vacuum within the NCP, which Sunetra Pawar quickly filled. Her elevation to the role of national president is seen as a testament to her growing political influence and her family’s enduring ties with the party. Sunetra Pawar made headlines in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections when she contested the Baramati seat against Ajit’s cousin, Supriya Sule, winning her first electoral race. Despite this victory, she faces challenges as she aims to secure election as a Maharashtra MLA within six months to continue her role as deputy chief minister.
The NCP has chosen Sunetra Pawar to fill the Rajya Sabha seat, further solidifying her position within the party hierarchy. Her rise to leadership is not only a reflection of her personal capabilities but also a strategic move by the NCP to maintain its political influence in Maharashtra, where the Pawar family has long held significant sway. As the party moves forward under her guidance, Sunetra Pawar’s ability to navigate both internal and external challenges will be crucial for the NCP’s future success.
This leadership transition within the NCP highlights the dynamic nature of Indian politics, where personal ties, family legacy, and political strategy often intersect. Sunetra Pawar’s elevation is not just a story of individual achievement but also underscores the resilience of the Pawar family’s political dynasty in Maharashtra
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026