BARAMATI, January 28 – In a shocking tragedy that has gripped Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar perished in a devastating plane crash at Baramati airport on Wednesday morning. The incident, which unfolded around 8:45 AM, has left the political landscape reeling, with tributes pouring in from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as the aircraft circled the runway twice before slamming into the ground in a fiery explosion. ‘We saw the plane make two loops, then it crashed hard and burst into flames,’ recounted Raju, one of the first people on site. Local villagers rushed to douse the blaze with whatever means they had, buying precious time until fire crews arrived.
The identification of Ajit Pawar, affectionately known as Ajit Dada, came from an unlikely source – his distinctive wristwatch amid the wreckage. Nikita Attole, another witness, recalled the massive blast that followed the impact. ‘It was around 8:45 when it happened. People said Ajit Pawar was aboard, confirmed by his watch,’ she said.
Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed profound grief, calling Pawar ‘a grounded leader, my friend, and colleague.’ He described the loss as ‘a personal blow that can never be filled’ and a ‘deep pain for Maharashtra.’ Prime Minister Modi also mourned the demise of the veteran politician, who was en route for election-related duties.
Monomali Prakash, yet another onlooker, painted a vivid picture: ‘Smoke billowed out after the loud bang. Police arrived, and they struggled to pull out the charred bodies.’ The crash site became a somber tableau as authorities cordoned off the area, investigating what caused the small plane to plummet.
Ajit Pawar’s death marks a significant void in Maharashtra politics. Known for his strongman image and roots in Baramati, his legacy includes pivotal roles in water conservation and cooperative movements. As the state mourns, questions swirl about aviation safety and the future of his political legacy. Investigations are underway, but for now, the watch that told the tragic tale stands as a poignant symbol of loss.