Maharashtra reels as veteran politician Ajit Pawar dies in a plane crash, leaving supporters shocked and state politics uncertain.
Tragedy struck India as Ajit Pawar, one of Maharashtra’s top politicians, died in a plane crash while traveling for campaign meetings. His sudden death not only claims the life of a key leader but also leaves a power vacuum in the state’s politics, shocking supporters and raising questions about the future of local governance and coalitions.
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The Fatal Crash How It Happened
Ajit Pawar’s small aircraft crashed while attempting a second landing at Baramati Airport on January 28, 2026. Poor visibility and challenging runway conditions reportedly contributed to the accident. The plane caught fire upon impact, and all five occupants, including Pawar, staff, and crew, died on the spot.
Indian Civil Aviation authorities confirmed that there were no survivors. Emergency teams rushed to the site, retrieving wreckage and evidence to help investigators determine the cause. Local media and officials quickly cordoned off the area to facilitate the inquiry.
Pawar was flying from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport to Baramati for campaign events. Baramati Airport’s elevated landing strip, known for its complexity, may have been a factor in the tragedy.
Ajit Pawar’s Career and Legacy
Ajit Pawar was a veteran politician, serving multiple terms as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and playing a key role in state development initiatives. His political career spanned over four decades, making him a household name in regional politics.
Born into the influential Pawar family, he was the nephew of NCP founder Sharad Pawar. Despite the family legacy, Ajit built his own path, leading a faction of the NCP and collaborating with the BJP in coalition governments.
Pawar was widely regarded as a “people’s leader” due to his dedication to public service and his hands-on role in budget planning and policy implementation. His death marks the loss of a major political figure.
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Political Reactions and Uncertainty
Maharashtra declared three days of mourning following the accident. Thousands of supporters gathered to pay tribute, while senior national leaders planned to attend the funeral.
The sudden death has created uncertainty within the NCP and the state government. Discussions about leadership succession and coalition stability are now underway, as the political landscape faces a critical test.
Questions about the state’s executive future and possible realignments in the coalition have emerged. Analysts say Pawar’s absence could reshape local politics in the coming months.
Investigation and Aviation Safety
Indian aviation authorities, including the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), launched a thorough investigation into the crash. They are examining flight data, cockpit recordings, and runway conditions.
Baramati Airport’s limited navigation systems and lack of full air traffic control could come under scrutiny. Investigators are analyzing technical evidence to pinpoint the exact cause.
The findings are expected to improve safety protocols at smaller airports across India, ensuring that private and chartered flights operate under stricter safety guidelines.
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Image Source:
- First Image from theguardian.com
- Second Image from theguardian.com