Ajit Pawar, deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, tragically lost his life in a plane crash that is sending shockwaves through India. The incident occurred at Baramati airport, at around 10:30 AM local time, where Pawar and four others onboard a chartered aircraft were killed.
The Bombardier Learjet 45 crashed shortly after being cleared for landing, reportedly due to poor visibility. India's civil aviation minister confirmed that the aviation regulator has initiated an investigation into the tragic accident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness, calling Pawar's demise 'shocking and saddening,' and praised his service to the people of Maharashtra. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the incident as an 'immeasurable loss' and a three-day mourning period has been declared in the state.
Pawar was 66 years old and a significant political figure in Maharashtra, having served multiple terms as deputy chief minister and holding key ministerial portfolios including agriculture and finance. His leadership was widely respected, and he was affectionately known as 'Dada' by his supporters.
The plane crash marks not only a personal tragedy but leaves an indelible impact on Maharashtra's political environment, raising questions about leadership within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the state's broader governance. Pawar's death is seen as a pivotal moment in India’s political landscape, prompting tributes from across political divides.
As the investigation into the crash unfolds, the Indian political community continues to grapple with the loss of one of its most influential leaders.
