Ajit Pawar Dies Along With Six Others During the Fatal Plane Crash
In a deeply saddening turn of events, Ajit Pawar dies along with six others in a devastating plane crash that occurred near Baramati in Maharashtra on the morning of January 28, 2026. The aircraft carrying the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra crashed while attempting to land, killing all on board and leaving a state in mourning.
This tragic incident has not only shaken the political landscape of Maharashtra but has also led to national expressions of grief and concern. Ajit Pawar was a seasoned politician with a long track record of leadership, and his sudden death has created a void in both governance and public service.
In this article, we will explore the details of the crash, what is known so far from official sources, the legacy of Ajit Pawar, reactions from leaders and citizens, and some reflections on aviation safety and emergency response. All information in this report comes from credible news organizations and official confirmations.
The Incident What Happened on That Fateful Day
On the morning of January 28, a chartered aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar and others was en route from Mumbai to Baramati, a city in Pune district, where Pawar was expected to attend several public events related to local elections.
The Crash
The aircraft, reportedly a Learjet 45 registered VT-SSK, encountered difficulties as it was attempting to land at Baramati Airport. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and multiple news outlets, the plane lost control during the landing phase and crashed near the runway.
Visual footage from the site showed debris strewn across the area, smoke and fire at the crash location, and emergency teams rushing to the scene.
Casualties Confirmed
The DGCA confirmed that all six people on board were killed in the crash. Among the victims were Ajit Pawar, his security personnel, two crew members, and at least one aide. There were no survivors.
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Who Was Ajit Pawar A Life in Public Service
Ajit Anantrao Pawar, born on July 22, 1959, was a prominent Indian politician and leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). He was serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at the time of his death. Pawar’s political career spanned decades, during which he was known for his administrative strength and ability to navigate complex political landscapes.
Political Influence and Legacy
Pawar played a key role in Maharashtra’s governance, serving multiple terms and holding important portfolios in the state government. His leadership was instrumental in agricultural development, industrial policy, and infrastructure projects across the state. He enjoyed significant public support, especially in regions like Baramati, which he represented with deep local connections.
Political analysts note that his sudden death is not just a loss for his party but a significant moment in Maharashtra’s political history, given his influence and prominence.
Eyewitness Accounts and Ground Reports
Eyewitnesses at the crash site reported hearing a loud impact and seeing the aircraft engulfed in flames shortly after it came down near the runway. Locals who rushed to help described the scene as chaotic, with debris scattered across the field and emergency responders working to secure the area.
Emergency services, including police and fire teams, were on the scene within minutes. Rescue operations were carried out, but officials confirmed that all six occupants had succumbed to their injuries.
Official Responses and Investigations
Directorate General of Civil Aviation
The DGCA has taken over the investigation into the crash. Preliminary information suggests that the aircraft lost control during landing, but the exact cause — whether technical failure or environmental factors — is still under review. Authorities have assured that a thorough and transparent inquiry will be conducted.
Political Leadership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were among the first national leaders to receive news of the crash. They contacted Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to get updates on the situation and expressed their condolences.
Leading political figures across parties have paid tribute, acknowledging Pawar’s contributions and the gravity of the loss.
Reactions From Citizens and Colleagues
Social media platforms and news outlets were flooded with reactions from citizens, party workers, and opinion leaders. Many described the tragedy as a profound loss for Maharashtra and India’s political fabric.
Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP and former colleague, expressed deep sorrow, noting that despite political differences, she had worked with Pawar and respected his dedication to public service.
Public mourning was reported in Baramati and other parts of the state, where citizens lit candles and gathered at local memorials to pay their respects.
The Human Dimension The Families Behind the Headlines
Behind every tragic news report are families coping with unimaginable grief. While official statements have focused on facts and protocol, the emotional impact on Pawar’s family — including his wife and children — is profound. Leaders have requested privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time.
This personal side of the tragedy is being sympathetically covered by various media outlets, emphasizing not just the event but the human cost of such sudden losses.
Aviation Safety Context and What It Means
Air travel in India is generally considered safe, with safety records improving steadily over the years. However, incidents like this highlight how critical emergency procedures and aircraft maintenance are, especially for smaller charter flights. Experts say that every crash prompts important reviews of protocols and safety standards.
With the DGCA leading the investigation, broader lessons may emerge about how to further reduce risks and enhance pilot training, aircraft checks, and emergency response readiness.
Political Implications and Governance Impact
The death of a Deputy Chief Minister mid-term raises questions about governance continuity and political stability. Maharashtra is one of India’s most populous and economically significant states, and such a loss in leadership can have ripple effects across administration, development initiatives, and election dynamics.
Political commentators predict a period of transition as parties mobilize to fill leadership roles and maintain policy momentum.
Remembering Ajit Pawar A Legacy of Service
Ajit Pawar’s legacy is rooted in public service, policy leadership, and local engagement. Leaders from various political backgrounds have spoken about his commitment to constituency work, his role in state development projects, and his ability to connect with ordinary citizens.
His contributions to agricultural reforms, infrastructure policy, and governance reforms are likely to be remembered and studied by future generations of leaders.
A Loss Felt Across Maharashtra and Beyond
The news that Ajit Pawar dies along with six others in a plane crash has stunned Maharashtra, India, and many who followed his political journey. What started as a routine flight to attend public engagements ended in a tragedy that will reverberate for weeks and months to come.
Through this article we have presented confirmed facts, eyewitness accounts, leadership reactions, and broader reflections on aviation safety and political impact. In times like these, the memory of a leader’s work and public service becomes a source of solace and inspiration.
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