Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), died in a plane crash near Baramati early on Wednesday morning. The 66-year-old leader, widely known as “Dada,” was headed home to campaign for the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections.

Crash Details: Emergency Landing Attempt Ends in Disaster

The chartered aircraft — a Bombardier Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Aviation — departed Mumbai at around 8:10 AM and was attempting to land at Baramati Airport around 8:45 AM when the crash occurred. Initial reports from aviation authorities and eyewitness accounts indicate that the plane struggled in thick fog and poor visibility, possibly leading to a failed landing attempt.

Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud bang as the jet went off the runway and exploded into flames. Rescue crews and locals rushed to the scene, but the fire was too intense, and there were no survivors.

Lives Lost: Leaders and Crew

Five other people aboard the flight also died, including:

• Two pilots

• A bodyguard

• An assistant/security personnel

All occupants on the aircraft perished in the fiery crash.

Political Reverberations: Mourning and Condolences

News of Pawar’s death sent shockwaves across Maharashtra and the broader Indian political landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and praised Pawar’s commitment to public service. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also conveyed grief and directed state authorities to ensure support to the bereaved family.

The state government announced a period of official mourning, with flags lowered and public functions curtailed as a mark of respect. Thousands gathered in Baramati — Pawar’s political stronghold — to pay last respects.

Family and Farewell: Final Rites Held

Pawar’s body was taken to a local institution where supporters, colleagues, and citizens lined the streets, visibly shaken by the loss. His last rites were conducted with full state honours, attended by senior leaders from across the political spectrum.

Family members, including NCP leaders Supriya Sule and Sunetra Pawar, traveled from Delhi to Baramati.

Investigation Underway: What Caused the Crash?

Officials have ordered an inquiry to determine whether mechanical failure, weather conditions, or other factors contributed to the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading the investigation, reviewing flight data, cockpit communications, and the weather conditions at the time of the incident.

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