Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash; Nation Mourns Prominent Leader
Baramati, India - Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has died in a tragic plane crash in Baramati on Wednesday morning, officials confirmed. The chartered aircraft carrying Pawar and others crashed while attempting an emergency landing near Baramati airport, leaving no survivors, authorities said.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that all five people on board, including Pawar, two pilots and two of his security personnel, were killed in the accident. The Learjet 45 aircraft reportedly veered off during landing and erupted in flames on impact.
Political shock and tributes
Pawar, 66, was a senior leader and a key figure in Maharashtra politics, serving as both Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister. News of his death drew immediate responses from across India’s political spectrum. Leaders expressed grief and offered condolences to his family and supporters.
Circumstances of the crash
The jet was flying from Mumbai to Baramati, where Pawar was scheduled to attend local election events, when it encountered trouble during the final approach to the runway. Emergency responders rushed to the scene as smoke and debris filled the crash site, but were unable to save anyone on board.
State and national reaction
Mourners gathered in Baramati and beyond as news spread. Political leaders highlighted Pawar’s long career, noting his influence in shaping Maharashtra’s budget and governance over decades. Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the crash, including possible technical or weather-related factors.
This accident marks a significant loss for the state’s leadership and comes as Maharashtra prepares for upcoming elections, leaving a void in its political landscape.