From Heir Apparent to Power Broker: The Turbulent Political Journey of Ajit Pawar That Reshaped Maharashtra Politics

Mumbai: Maharashtra’s political landscape has been shaped by strong personalities, sharp turns, and uneasy alliances. Few leaders embodied all three as clearly as Ajit Pawar. For over three decades, he remained a constant presence in the state’s power corridors—sometimes as a decisive administrator, sometimes as a controversial figure, and often as a disruptor of established political equations. His political journey, which began in the early 1990s, ended abruptly in 2026, closing one of the most complex chapters in Maharashtra politics.

Ajit Pawar entered public life in 1991 from Baramati, a constituency long associated with the Pawar family. Though he carried the weight of his uncle Sharad Pawar’s legacy, his rise was not immediate. In his early years, he worked under senior leaders, holding junior ministerial positions and handling demanding portfolios such as agriculture, power, and industries. These roles helped him build a reputation as a hands-on leader who valued speed, discipline, and control over administration.

The Congress–NCP coalition era marked his real ascent. During the governments led by Vilasrao Deshmukh, Ajit Pawar emerged as a reliable troubleshooter. He often praised Deshmukh’s ability to manage coalitions, and their working relationship strengthened his standing within the NCP. While Sharad Pawar focused increasingly on national politics, Ajit Pawar quietly consolidated his influence in the state by nurturing loyal legislators and expanding his organisational grip.

His appointment as Deputy Chief Minister in 2010 was a turning point. It also exposed fault lines within the coalition. Differences with Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan highlighted contrasting styles—Ajit Pawar’s assertive decision-making versus Chavan’s cautious approach. These tensions, combined with allegations linked to irrigation projects, pushed the Congress–NCP alliance into deeper discomfort.

Controversy followed Ajit Pawar throughout his career. Investigations, audits, and political accusations weakened his public image but did little to reduce his internal authority. Known for blunt statements and strict work culture, he inspired both fear and loyalty among officials and colleagues. His belief that politics required independent decision-making often brought him into conflict with allies.

A major shift came as the NCP gradually distanced itself from the Congress and moved closer to the BJP, particularly in urban power centres like Pune. Ajit Pawar played a key role in these tactical alliances. The dramatic early-morning swearing-in episode of 2019 damaged his credibility but also confirmed his willingness to take high political risks.

The split in the NCP in 2023 was the culmination of long-simmering tensions within the Pawar family and the party. While Ajit Pawar retained governmental power, questions about unity, ideology, and legacy persisted. Speculation about future realignments never faded.

Ajit Pawar’s political life was defined by ambition, authority, and constant confrontation. Admired for administrative grip and criticised for controversies, he remained impossible to ignore. His sudden exit from public life has left Maharashtra politics quieter—but also uncertain about who will fill the vacuum left by a leader who thrived at the centre of every storm.