Tragedy in Baramati: Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Air Crash

In a catastrophic event that has sent shockwaves across the nation, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Ajit Pawar tragically lost his life this morning in an aircraft accident. He was 66.

The veteran leader, affectionately known as “Dada” by his supporters, was traveling to his hometown of Baramati to address public meetings ahead of the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. The tragic incident marks the sudden end of a tumultuous and highly influential chapter in Maharashtra’s political history.

The Crash: A Morning of Devastation
The accident occurred at approximately 8:45 AM as the private chartered aircraft, a Learjet 45 (registration VT-SSK), attempted to land at the Baramati Airport in the Pune district.

According to preliminary reports from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and eyewitness accounts, the aircraft encountered difficulties during its descent. Witnesses reported seeing the plane approach unsteadily before veering off the runway and crashing into the ground. The impact resulted in a massive explosion, engulfing the fuselage in flames within seconds.

Despite the immediate response of local fire brigades and emergency teams, there were no survivors. Along with Mr. Pawar, four others perished in the crash, including his Personal Security Officer (PSO), an attendant, and two pilots.

“We heard a deafening sound and saw a ball of fire,” said a local resident near the crash site. “It is heartbreaking to know that Dada, who built this town, died right here.”

A Colossal Loss for Maharashtra
Ajit Pawar’s death creates a massive vacuum in the state’s political landscape. Known for his aggressive administrative style and grassroots connectivity, he was a dominant force in the sugar belt of western Maharashtra.

Often referred to as the “Forever Deputy Chief Minister,” Pawar held the post a record number of times, serving under varying alliances including the Congress-NCP, the Maha Vikas Aghadi, and the recent Mahayuti coalition with the BJP and Shiv Sena. His ability to navigate complex political equations and his firm grip on the state’s administration made him an indispensable figure in Mumbai’s power corridors.

His career was defined by both his immense developmental work in water resources and finance, and his bold, often controversial, political maneuvers most notably his split from his uncle and mentor, Sharad Pawar, to lead his own faction of the NCP.

Nation in Mourning
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, transcending party lines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep shock, describing Pawar as a “hardworking leader dedicated to the development of Maharashtra.”

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a close ally, called it a personal loss, stating, “I have lost a friend and a brother. Maharashtra has lost a visionary administrator.”

Even political rivals have expressed their grief. Rahul Gandhi and leaders from the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi termed the incident “heartbreaking” and a “monumental loss.”

The atmosphere in Baramati, a constituency Ajit Pawar represented for decades, is one of disbelief and gloom. Thousands of supporters have begun gathering near his residence, weeping and chanting his name.

An Unfinished Legacy
As investigators begin the grim task of determining the technical cause of the crash—examining the flight data recorder and weather conditions the focus remains on the human cost of this tragedy.

Ajit Pawar leaves behind his wife, Sunetra Pawar, and two sons, Parth and Jay. But beyond his immediate family, he leaves behind a state that he helped shape for over three decades. Whether as a fierce administrator, a master strategist, or a rebellious nephew, Ajit Pawar was a man who could never be ignored. Today, Maharashtra mourns the silence of one of its loudest and most vibrant voices.

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