BARAMATI, Maharashtra — In a shocking turn of events that has left the entire state of Maharashtra in deep sorrow, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar lost his life in a plane crash near Baramati today. The accident happened early in the morning, around 8:45 a.m. IST, when the small aircraft he was traveling in from Mumbai tried to land but ended up crashing. The plane belly-landed, caught fire, and then exploded. Poor visibility due to fog and no response from the pilot to air traffic control are being blamed for the mishap. Ajit Pawar, who was 66 years old, was a big name in Maharashtra politics. He was the nephew of NCP founder Sharad Pawar and had spent many years working for the people, especially in rural areas. Along with him, two other passengers, the pilot Captain Shambhavi Pathak, and a crew member also died in the crash. Leaders from all over India, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, have expressed their grief. Even people like cricket star Sachin Tendulkar and businessman Gautam Adani have paid their tributes. This loss comes at a bad time, just before important elections in the state, and it leaves a big gap in Maharashtra’s political scene.

The news spread like wildfire across the country. People in Baramati, Ajit Pawar’s hometown, are heartbroken. Shops are closed, and the streets are quiet as everyone mourns. The crash site is now under tight security, with experts trying to figure out what went wrong. This is not just a personal loss for his family but a big blow to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the ruling alliance in Maharashtra. Ajit Pawar was known as a hardworking leader who always put the needs of farmers and poor people first. His sudden death has raised many questions about safety in air travel, especially for small planes used by politicians.

The Crash: What Happened?

The plane was a Learjet 45XR, owned by VSR Aviation, a private company. It took off from Mumbai and was heading to Baramati, which is in Pune district. Ajit Pawar was going there for some political meetings. According to reports, the weather was bad with thick fog, making it hard to see the runway. The pilot, Captain Shambhavi Pathak, tried to land but something went wrong. The plane hit the ground hard, slid on its belly, and then burst into flames. It exploded soon after, killing everyone on board instantly.

Eyewitnesses said they heard a loud noise and saw smoke rising from the area near the Baramati airport. A CCTV camera on a nearby highway caught the moment of the crash. The video shows the plane coming down fast, hitting the ground, and then a big fireball. Rescue teams rushed to the spot, but it was too late. The aircraft was completely destroyed, broken into pieces. This is the second time a plane from VSR Aviation has had a problem. In 2023, the same type of Learjet had a landing mishap, but no one died then.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has started an investigation. They are looking into whether it was due to bad weather, a technical fault, or human error. The black box from the plane has been found, and experts will check it for clues. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has promised a full probe and said steps will be taken to prevent such accidents in the future. For now, the families of the victims are waiting for answers. Captain Shambhavi Pathak was a young pilot with good training. She had flown many times before, but this flight turned out to be her last.

Baramati airport is small and mostly used for private flights. Some people are now saying that better safety measures should be in place for such airports, especially in bad weather. Fog is common in winter in this part of Maharashtra, and pilots need to be extra careful. The crash has also brought back memories of other air accidents involving politicians in India.

Ajit Pawar’s Life and Political Journey

Ajit Pawar was born on July 22, 1959, in Baramati. He came from a family deeply involved in politics. His uncle, Sharad Pawar, started the NCP and was a big leader in Maharashtra and at the national level. Ajit followed in his footsteps and joined politics early. He first became an MLA in 1991 from Baramati, the same seat he held until his death. Over the years, he served in many important roles, like Minister for Irrigation, Power, and Planning.

He was known for his work in rural development. Ajit Pawar pushed for better water supply for farmers, built dams, and helped with irrigation projects. Many people in Maharashtra’s villages called him “Dada,” which means elder brother, because he was always there to help. He was also tough when it came to administration. Once, he said in a speech that if people don’t pay their water bills, he would cut off the supply. That showed his no-nonsense style.

But his career had ups and downs. In 2019, there was a big political drama when he split from his uncle’s NCP and joined hands with the BJP to form a government. It didn’t last long, but it showed his ambition. Later, in 2023, he again broke away and became Deputy CM in the alliance with BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena group. Some called him a rebel, but others saw him as a smart politician who knew how to play the game.

Ajit Pawar was married to Sunetra Pawar, and they have two sons. His family was always by his side in politics. Sunetra even contested elections. He was a simple man who liked to meet people directly. He often visited villages, listened to their problems, and tried to solve them. His death has left his family shattered. Governor Acharya Devvrat, CM Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde visited his wife in Baramati to offer condolences.

In his long career, Ajit Pawar won many elections and built a strong base in Pune district. He was seen as a leader who could connect with the grassroots. His focus on agriculture and water issues made him popular among farmers. Maharashtra’s economy depends a lot on farming, and his work helped many. But there were controversies too, like allegations of corruption in irrigation projects. He always denied them and said they were political attacks.

Reactions from Leaders and Public

The news of Ajit Pawar’s death has brought tributes from all corners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a statement, “Shri Ajit Pawar ji was a leader close to the people, with strong roots at the grassroots. He was always at the forefront in serving Maharashtra’s people. His deep knowledge of administration was impressive. His passion for empowering the poor and deprived was noteworthy. His untimely death is shocking and sad. My heartfelt condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called him a “visionary leader” who worked tirelessly for rural Maharashtra. “Ajit Dada’s contribution to the state will never be forgotten,” he said. Rahul Gandhi from Congress tweeted, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Ajit Pawar ji. My thoughts are with his family in this difficult time.”

Even outside politics, people paid respects. Sachin Tendulkar wrote, “Shocked to hear about Ajit Pawar ji. He was a true son of Maharashtra. Rest in peace.” Gautam Adani said, “Ajit Pawar’s dedication to development inspired many. His loss is irreparable.”

In Baramati, people gathered outside his home, crying and sharing stories. One farmer said, “He was like a father to us. Who will look after our water problems now?” The NCP office in Mumbai has a photo of him with flowers, and party workers are in mourning.

Uttar Pradesh Minister SP Singh Baghel said, “The entire country is in mourning over the untimely death of Ajit Pawar. May God grant him a place at His feet. Our condolences to his family.” President of the All India Anti-Terrorist Front, Maninderjeet Singh Bitta, added, “This is a very tragic accident. We must ensure proper attention is given so that such incidents do not occur again.”

The crash has also sparked talks about conspiracy. Some opposition leaders are asking for a high-level probe. But officials say it’s too early to say anything.

Impact on Maharashtra Politics

Ajit Pawar’s death comes at a crucial time. Elections are around the corner, and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) was gearing up. He was the face of the party in many areas. Now, the alliance with BJP and Shiv Sena might face challenges. Who will take his place? His son Parth Pawar or someone else?

Maharashtra politics is known for family ties. The Pawar family has ruled Baramati for decades. Sharad Pawar, now old, might have to step in more. But the split between uncle and nephew was bitter, though they shared family bonds.

The state government has declared a day of mourning. Flags are at half-mast, and official events are canceled. This loss could change voting patterns in rural areas where Ajit was strong.

Experts say his work in water management helped fight droughts. Projects like the Krishna Valley irrigation scheme owe a lot to him. Farmers in dry areas got water because of his efforts. He also pushed for solar power and better roads in villages.

But critics point to delays in some projects and high costs. Still, his fans say he did more good than harm.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

The DGCA team is at the site, collecting evidence. They are talking to air traffic controllers and checking the plane’s maintenance records. VSR Aviation has said they are cooperating fully. The company has a good safety record, but the 2023 incident raises questions.

Pilot Shambhavi Pathak was experienced. She trained in India and abroad. Her family is in shock. A friend said, “She loved flying and was very careful.”

This crash reminds us of other accidents. In 2020, an Air India plane crashed in Kerala. Safety rules were tightened after that. Now, there might be new rules for small planes.

Some are blaming the fog. Winter fog often delays flights in north India, but Maharashtra also gets it. Airports need better instruments for low visibility landings.

The government has ordered a safety audit of all charter planes. Politicians often use them for quick travel. This could lead to stricter checks.

Legacy of Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar will be remembered as a leader who rose from a small town to the top. He started as a cooperative society chairman and became Deputy CM five times. His speeches were straightforward, and he didn’t like fancy words.

He helped set up sugar factories and milk cooperatives, boosting the economy in Pune. Many schools and hospitals in Baramati bear his mark.

His political moves were bold. The 2019 swear-in with Devendra Fadnavis lasted only 80 hours but showed his daring. Later, he built his own NCP group.

Personal life was simple. He liked Marathi food and watching cricket. He was close to his grandchildren.

His funeral will be in Baramati tomorrow, with state honors. Thousands are expected.

FAQs

What caused the plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar?

The crash happened due to poor visibility from fog and possible no response from the pilot to air traffic control. The plane belly-landed, caught fire, and exploded. Full details will come after the DGCA investigation.

Who else died in the crash?

Besides Ajit Pawar, two passengers, pilot Captain Shambhavi Pathak, and a crew member died. All five on board lost their lives.

How did leaders react to Ajit Pawar’s death?

PM Narendra Modi called it shocking and praised his work for the poor. CM Fadnavis said Maharashtra lost a visionary. Rahul Gandhi sent condolences. Even Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Adani paid tributes.

What was Ajit Pawar’s role in politics?

He was Deputy CM of Maharashtra and leader of his NCP faction. He focused on rural development, irrigation, and helping farmers.

Will there be an impact on upcoming elections?

Yes, his death leaves a void in the NCP and the ruling alliance. It might change politics in Pune and rural areas.

What is being done about the investigation?

DGCA is probing, checking the black box and records. Aviation Minister promised action to prevent future crashes.