Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash

Baramati, Maharashtra | January 28, 2026

Maharashtra was plunged into deep shock on Tuesday morning after Ajit Pawar, the state’s Deputy Chief Minister and senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, died in a tragic plane crash near Baramati Airport in Pune district. The incident occurred during an attempted emergency landing, officials said.

What Happened: Incident Details

According to official information, the chartered aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar took off from Mumbai early in the morning and was en route to Baramati, where the leader was scheduled to attend political and administrative engagements.

At around 8:45 AM, the aircraft reportedly developed technical issues while approaching Baramati Airport. During the emergency landing attempt, the plane lost control near the runway, crashed, and caught fire immediately after impact. Rescue teams rushed to the site, but the intensity of the blaze left no survivors.

Who Was On Board

Authorities confirmed that five people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash:

• Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra
• Two pilots (captain and co-pilot)
• One personal security officer (PSO)
• One aircraft attendant

All occupants lost their lives in the accident.

Investigation Underway

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a detailed probe to determine the exact cause of the crash. Preliminary assessments suggest a possible technical failure, though officials stated that conclusions will be drawn only after a full investigation, including examination of flight data and wreckage.

Political Leaders Express Condolences

Leaders across party lines expressed profound grief over the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. Senior leaders from the ruling alliance as well as the opposition described him as a decisive administrator, mass leader, and influential political figure in Maharashtra.

The state government announced a three-day period of state mourning, with national flags flown at half-mast and official events suspended as a mark of respect.

Ajit Pawar: Family Background

Ajit Anantrao Pawar was born on July 22, 1959, in Maharashtra. He belonged to the prominent Pawar political family and was the nephew of veteran leader Sharad Pawar.

He is survived by his wife Sunetra Pawar and their two sons, Parth Pawar and Jay Pawar, both of whom have been associated with public life.

Political Career and Legacy

Ajit Pawar was one of Maharashtra’s most experienced politicians and the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister of the state. Over his decades-long career, he handled key portfolios such as Finance, Planning, Irrigation, and Rural Development.

Known for his strong grip on administration and deep influence in Maharashtra’s cooperative and sugar belt politics, Pawar played a crucial role in shaping state budgets and policy decisions across multiple governments. Until his final journey, he remained actively involved in governance and political strategy.

A Sudden Loss for Maharashtra

Ajit Pawar’s untimely death has left a major void in Maharashtra politics. As investigations continue into the tragic crash, the state mourns the loss of a leader who remained at the center of power and public life for over three decades.