In a shocking tragedy that has gripped Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar lost his life in a devastating plane crash near Baramati on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred as he was en route from Mumbai to attend a public rally in his home turf.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, deeply saddened by the news, immediately reached out to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the phone. Sources confirm that PM Modi sought a detailed briefing on the crash circumstances and the ongoing rescue efforts. Expressing profound grief, Modi took to social media platform X to share his condolences, stating, ‘The unfortunate plane crash in Baramati has left me heartbroken. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for strength to the bereaved families.’
Highlighting Pawar’s legacy, the Prime Minister described him as a ‘people’s leader with deep grassroots connections.’ He praised Pawar’s tireless dedication to public service, administrative acumen, and passion for empowering the underprivileged. ‘His sudden departure is shocking and heartbreaking,’ Modi added, extending sympathies to Pawar’s family and supporters.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his anguish, calling Pawar’s demise a ‘personal loss’ for the NDA family. In a poignant X post, Shah reminisced about their discussions on Maharashtra’s welfare issues over the decades. He affirmed the NDA’s solidarity with the Pawar family during this hour of grief.
The crash happened around 9 AM when Pawar’s aircraft lost control during landing at Baramati airport. Eyewitnesses reported the plane veering off the runway, crashing, and bursting into flames. Tragically, no one on board survived. Maharashtra government officials have updated both Modi and Shah on the situation, with investigations underway to ascertain the cause.
Ajit Pawar, a towering figure in state politics for over three decades, leaves behind a void in Maharashtra’s leadership. His contributions to rural development, irrigation projects, and farmer welfare will be remembered fondly. As the state mourns, political leaders across the spectrum have begun pouring in tributes, underscoring his widespread influence.
The accident has prompted calls for a thorough safety audit of regional airstrips. With Baramati still reeling from the shock, Shah is reportedly en route to the site, signaling the central leadership’s hands-on approach to the crisis. Maharashtra’s political landscape faces an uncertain future without one of its most dynamic architects.