In a shocking aviation tragedy, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, fondly known as ‘Dada’ in state politics, lost his life in a plane crash near Baramati on Wednesday morning. Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, expressed profound grief over the untimely demise of the veteran leader.
Adani took to social media platform X to share his condolences, recalling a recent meeting with Pawar just a month ago at the inauguration of the Sharad Pawar Center of Excellence in AI in Baramati. ‘Deeply saddened by the passing of Maharashtra’s Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. We stood together at the event, reflecting his vision for progress and commitment to India’s youth,’ Adani wrote.
The crash occurred at 8:45 AM when Pawar’s chartered plane attempted to land at Baramati Airport. The aircraft lost control, bursting into flames upon impact. Tragically, five lives were lost, including Pawar, his security personnel, two pilots, and a female crew member. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed the fatalities.
Pawar was en route from Mumbai to Baramati for a public rally amid district council and panchayat elections. Eyewitness accounts described scenes of chaos with thick smoke, wreckage scattered across the runway, and emergency ambulances rushing the injured to hospitals.
Rescue teams, senior security officials, and emergency services swiftly responded to the site. Preliminary reports suggest a possible loss of control during landing maneuvers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, calling Pawar a ‘leader with strong grassroots connect’ whose administrative acumen and passion for empowering the poor were exemplary. ‘His sudden demise is shocking and heartbreaking,’ Modi posted on X.
President Droupadi Murmu echoed the sentiments, terming Pawar’s death an ‘irreparable loss’ and highlighting his invaluable contributions to Maharashtra’s development, particularly in the cooperative sector.
Ajit Pawar’s passing leaves a void in Maharashtra politics. Known for his dedication to state progress, his legacy of commitment to development and youth empowerment will inspire future generations. Adani urged continuing on the path Pawar envisioned to build a future-ready Maharashtra. May his soul rest in peace.