In a heartfelt message posted on X, Sunetra Pawar expressed the enduring void left by Ajit Pawar’s passing while also highlighting how his presence continues to be felt in everyday political and social responsibilities.
“Dada, today marks two full months since you left us. Time marches on, but my heart remains entangled in memories of you. In every moment, your absence is felt so keenly, and at the same time, your presence lingers on in daily political and social affairs,” she wrote.
Her words captured a rare blend of personal mourning and public duty, reflecting the emotional weight of stepping into a leadership role soon after a profound loss.
Reflecting on Ajit Pawar’s political journey, Sunetra Pawar highlighted his deep connection with the masses and his unwavering commitment to development-oriented governance.
She described him as a leader whose “people-centric and development-oriented personality” set him apart, emphasising his emotional bond with ordinary citizens and his relentless drive to bring meaningful change.
“You were not just a leader; you were a pillar of faith, strength, and hope in the lives of countless people. Because of you, many found direction, opportunities, and the power to stand on their own feet,” she noted in her tribute.
Sunetra Pawar also stressed that the political movement shaped by Ajit Pawar would continue to follow the ideological path rooted in the principles of Shiv, Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar.
Referring to the legacy of the Nationalist Congress Party, she affirmed that decisions related to public welfare are being guided by the values and vision he upheld.
“The journey of our Nationalist Congress family continues unbroken, inspired by you. When making decisions for public welfare, I strive to take each step keeping in mind what you would have done,” she stated.
Ajit Pawar’s sudden death in a plane crash on January 28, 2026, sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape, creating a leadership vacuum within both the party and the state government.
In the weeks that followed, Sunetra Pawar was elevated to the post of Deputy Chief Minister and assumed leadership of the party, marking a significant transition in the state’s power structure.
Her elevation not only signalled continuity within the NCP but also positioned her as a key political figure navigating both governance and legacy.
The emotional note, written partly in Marathi, resonated widely among party workers and supporters, many of whom continue to regard Ajit Pawar as a towering figure in Maharashtra politics.
