Mumbai: Maharashtra witnessed another significant political realignment today as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formed the government, marking a new chapter in the state’s governance. Devendra Fadnavis, a seasoned BJP leader, took the oath as the Chief Minister, while Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. While the full composition of the cabinet remains uncertain, one record-breaking moment stood out: Ajit Pawar’s sixth swearing-in as Deputy Chief Minister, making him the most frequently appointed Deputy CM in Maharashtra’s history.
Ajit Pawar: A Veteran in the Deputy CM Seat
Ajit Pawar’s political journey reached another milestone as he cemented his place in Maharashtra’s political landscape with his sixth tenure as Deputy Chief Minister. Interestingly, the Constitution does not formally recognize the post of Deputy CM. However, it has become a political tool to signify the “number two” position in the government, often used to balance alliances and ensure stability among coalition partners.
Ajit Pawar’s long-standing political career has seen him serve as Deputy CM under four different Chief Ministers:
- Twice under Prithviraj Chavan (2010–2012, 2012–2014).
- Twice under Devendra Fadnavis (2019), albeit for a brief 80-hour stint.and now in 2024
- Once under Uddhav Thackeray (2019–2023).
- Once under Eknath Shinde (2023).
A Record-Breaking Journey with Unique Highlights
Ajit Pawar first took office as Deputy CM in 2010, serving two consecutive terms during Prithviraj Chavan’s tenure. His political maneuvering came to national attention in 2019 when he was sworn in as Deputy CM in an early morning ceremony alongside Devendra Fadnavis during a short-lived NDA government, which lasted only 72 hours. He later switched allegiance to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), assuming the Deputy CM role under Uddhav Thackeray.
In 2023, Pawar joined the Mahayuti alliance led by Eknath Shinde, taking on the Deputy CM role for the fifth time. Today’s swearing-in marked his sixth term, a testament to his resilience and strategic acumen.
The Deputy CM Phenomenon in India
While Ajit Pawar has set a record in Maharashtra, the post of Deputy CM has been a feature in many Indian states to ensure coalition dynamics are maintained. Currently, 23 Deputy CMs serve across 14 states in India. Historically, Anugrah Narayan Sinha of Bihar was India’s first Deputy CM, serving from independence until 1957.
Ambition for the Top Post
Despite his repeated tenures as Deputy CM, Ajit Pawar has never shied away from expressing his desire to become Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. On multiple occasions, he has openly voiced his aspirations, famously remarking that his political career has been “stuck at Deputy CM.”
What Lies Ahead for Maharashtra’s Governance?
With a dynamic trio at the helm—Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar—the new government faces the challenge of navigating the complex political equations in Maharashtra. The focus now shifts to the announcement of the full cabinet and the policies that this government will prioritize in the coming months.
Ajit Pawar’s historic sixth term as Deputy CM underscores his pivotal role in Maharashtra politics, but his ambition for the top seat continues to keep the state’s political landscape intriguing.
