In a shocking incident, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died Wednesday in a plane crash. Four others on board also lost their lives.
The accident occurred while Pawar was traveling to his home region to campaign for local body elections. He was flying from Mumbai when the aircraft went down near Baramati in Pune district, Maharashtra.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed that no one survived the crash. Alongside Ajit Pawar, two staff members and two crew were killed. Video footage showed thick smoke rising from the wreckage scattered across an open field.
Ajit Pawar was a senior leader from a prominent political family in Maharashtra. He supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party in the state coalition government. Pawar had previously led a faction that split from the opposition Nationalist Congress Party in 2023.
The deputy CM was traveling to Baramati, his family stronghold, to canvass for upcoming local body elections. Reports suggest the aircraft attempted an emergency landing in the area before the crash occurred.
Authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the accident. Aviation regulators, along with other agencies, have launched investigations to determine the reason behind the fatal crash.
The incident has left the political establishment and public in shock. Ajit Pawar’s high-profile role in Maharashtra politics makes the loss particularly significant. Leaders across party lines expressed grief over the tragedy.
The crash also raises concerns over aviation safety in the state, with authorities promising a thorough inquiry. Residents of Baramati and Pune districts mourn the loss of one of the region’s most influential leaders.
Ajit Pawar’s political journey spanned decades, with significant contributions to state governance and local development. The sudden incident marks a tragic day in Maharashtra’s political history, leaving a void in leadership.
Officials have urged the public to stay away from the crash site while investigations continue. Further updates are expected once authorities release their preliminary findings.
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The loss of Ajit Pawar highlights the fragility of life and the importance of aviation safety, sending shockwaves throughout Maharashtra and the wider political community.
