Fadnavis Promises Full Support to NCP Family, Takes Up Ajit Pawar's Budget Work

In the aftermath of the sudden demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday moved to assure administrative continuity and political stability, announcing that he will personally oversee the preparation of the 2026–27 State Budget. The move comes amid concerns over a leadership vacuum following Ajit Pawar’s passing.

Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar, who also held the finance portfolio, had already completed most of the groundwork for the upcoming budget. Emphasizing continuity, the Chief Minister stated that he would take charge of the remaining processes to ensure that Pawar’s policy vision is carried forward without disruption. He added that a decision on who will formally present the budget in the legislature will be taken at an appropriate time.

“To ensure Ajit Pawar’s vision is fulfilled, I will personally oversee the budget work starting tomorrow,” Fadnavis said, underlining the importance of maintaining momentum in the state’s financial planning. He reiterated that the budget preparations were largely complete and required only final oversight and coordination.

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The Chief Minister also sought to reassure the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Ajit Pawar’s family, stating that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the state government would stand “with full force” behind them during this period of transition. He stressed that the ruling MahaYuti alliance would respect and support whatever decision the NCP takes regarding its future leadership.

When asked about the possibility of appointing a new Deputy Chief Minister, Fadnavis confirmed that discussions are ongoing but clarified that no formal proposal has yet been finalized. He noted that NCP leaders have held multiple rounds of discussions with him, but the final decision rests solely with the party.

In addition, Fadnavis addressed pending mayoral elections in Mumbai, Nagpur, and other cities, saying consultations within the MahaYuti alliance are underway. He said candidates will be finalized in the coming days after discussions with local party leaders and legislators, signalling continued political coordination despite the recent developments.

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