India Mourns as Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Crash

Tragedy struck the nation on Wednesday, as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar passed away in a devastating aircraft accident. The veteran leader was traveling from Mumbai to Baramati when his chartered Learjet 45 encountered severe difficulties during landing. Officials report that the aircraft appeared unstable in the air before crashing near the Baramati airfield and bursting into flames. All five individuals on board, including two crew members and two security personnel, lost their lives in the incident.

The Maharashtra government has declared three days of state mourning and a public holiday to honor the 66-year-old leader. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the loss as “irreparable,” noting that Pawar was a stalwart of grassroots politics who shaped the state’s development for decades. National flags will fly at half-mast across all government buildings until January 30. Educational institutions and government offices across Maharashtra will remain closed as the state prepares for a funeral with full state honors on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in expressing deep condolences to the Pawar family. Political leaders from across the spectrum, including Sharad Pawar and Rahul Gandhi, shared their shock at the sudden demise of the influential NCP leader. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has ordered a high-level probe by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). Preliminary reports suggest poor visibility may have contributed to the crash, though a detailed forensic investigation is currently underway at the site.

The untimely death of Ajit Pawar marks the end of an era in Maharashtra’s cooperative and political sectors. Known for his administrative efficiency and “straight-talk” approach, he served as Deputy Chief Minister for a record six terms. As thousands gather in Baramati to pay their last respects, the tragic event has brought a somber pause to the national political calendar. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the risks faced by public figures in transit, prompting calls for stricter safety protocols for chartered flights.