Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Killed in Plane Crash, State Announces Three Days of Mourning
Five people, including Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, died when a private jet crashed near Baramati on Wednesday morning.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar (66) and four others were killed in a plane crash near Baramati on Wednesday morning, sending shockwaves across India’s political landscape.
The Incident
Pawar was traveling in a Bombardier Learjet 45 that took off from Mumbai at 8:10 AM, heading to Baramati. According to flight radar data, the aircraft disappeared from radar at 8:45 AM and crashed at 8:50 AM near Baramati.
Who Was on Board?
All five people on the plane died in the crash:
- Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra
- His Personal Security Officer (PSO)
- Two support staff members
- Pilot and co-pilot
There were no survivors.
What Caused the Crash?
Early reports suggest the pilot reported very poor visibility before landing. Police sources say the plane crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport in bad weather conditions. A full investigation has been ordered.
Official Response
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced three days of mourning and a local holiday in Baramati. “This is an extremely difficult day for Maharashtra. Ajit Pawar was my personal friend. I am traveling to Baramati with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde,” Fadnavis said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling Pawar a democratic and public leader. President Droupadi Murmu said his death is an irreparable loss, especially given his service to Maharashtra’s development.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devrat, and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan were among many political leaders who offered condolences.
NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule expressed her grief on social media, while NCP (SP)’s Anil Deshmukh became emotional during a press conference.
Political Impact
Pawar was traveling to Baramati to attend public rallies for the District Council elections. His sudden death is expected to affect the state’s political situation and the NCP’s election strategy.
About the Aircraft
The Bombardier Learjet 45 is a mid-size business jet manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace. The crashed plane was owned by VSR Ventures Private Limited, based in Delhi.
