PUNE: In a heartfelt tribute, Union Minister Ramdass Athawale expressed profound grief over the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a devastating plane crash. Speaking to the media here on Wednesday, Athawale described Pawar’s death as a massive blow to the state’s political landscape.
‘Ajit Dada and I shared an excellent relationship,’ Athawale recalled fondly. ‘He had a clear vision for development, which is why he joined the Mahayuti alliance.’ Pawar, known as a powerful leader whose words carried weight and decisions had edge, was admired for his administrative grip and punctuality.
Athawale highlighted Pawar’s straightforwardness. ‘He always spoke his mind without hesitation.’ The minister portrayed Pawar’s passing as the end of a dynamic era in Maharashtra politics, a state long synonymous with progressive ideals. ‘One of its strongest pillars has crumbled today.’
Pawar consistently championed the causes of Dalits, laborers, and the marginalized, whether in power or opposition. His commitments were final and unyielding. ‘Maharashtra will never forget his contributions,’ Athawale affirmed.
Minister Chhagan Bhujbal echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for a thorough investigation into the crash. ‘Police, DGCA, and airport authorities must probe how this happened,’ he said. Pawar’s sudden exit will undoubtedly reshape Maharashtra’s political dynamics, especially as a key figure in his party.
‘Ajit Dada was a brave leader whose jovial nature shocked everyone with this untimely departure,’ Bhujbal added. ‘Overcoming this personally will be tough for all of us.’ As Maharashtra grapples with this loss, Pawar’s legacy of development and decisiveness endures.