Baramati: Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, passed away tragically today in a plane crash near Baramati. He was 66.

Key Highlights

  • Tragic Accident: Passed away in a private charter plane crash near Baramati.
  • Political Legacy: A dominant force in Maharashtra's cooperative sector and Baramati politics.
  • State Mourning: Maharashtra government announces three-day state mourning.

Baramati: In a shocking turn of events, the veteran politician died in a private plane crash near his hometown of Baramati earlier today. The accident reportedly occurred during landing approach amidst poor weather conditions.

Wreckage of the plane crash near Baramati
Visuals from the crash site near Baramati.

Fatal Flight Details

The aircraft involved was a Bombardier Learjet 45 (Registration VT-SSK), operated by VSR Ventures. It had taken off from Mumbai earlier in the day.

Casualties: Along with Ajit Pawar, the tragic crash claimed the lives of the flight crew. The aircraft was piloted by Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Co-pilot Pinky Mali. Rescue teams recovered the bodies from the wreckage near the Baramati airport.

Rescue teams rushed to the site immediately, but authorities confirmed there were no survivors. News of his untimely demise in such tragic circumstances has sent shockwaves across the nation.

A Political Titan

Affectionately known as 'Dada' by his supporters, Ajit Pawar was a central figure in Maharashtra politics for over three decades. Nephew of NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar, Ajit carved out his own distinct identity as an administrator known for his decisiveness and grip on the administration. He held the Finance portfolio multiple times, earning a reputation for his command over the state's finances.

Throughout his career, he navigated complex coalition politics, playing kingmaker on several occasions. His influence extended deep into the cooperative sugar factories and district banks of Western Maharashtra, forming the bedrock of his political clout.

Condolences Pour In

Tributes have started pouring in from across the political aisle. The Prime Minister expressed deep grief, calling him "a grassroots leader dedicated to the development of Maharashtra." The Chief Minister of Maharashtra has announced a state funeral with full honors.

"His loss leaves a void in Maharashtra politics that will be hard to fill. He was a man of action and a leader of the masses," read a statement from the NCP office.

Crowds of supporters have begun gathering outside his residence and the hospital to pay their last respects. Heavy security has been deployed across Mumbai and Pune to manage the situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ajit Pawar pass away?

Ajit Pawar passed away on January 28, 2026, at the age of 66 due to a tragic plane crash near Baramati.

What was the cause of Ajit Pawar's death?

He died in a plane crash involving a Bombardier Learjet 45 that crashed near Baramati airport due to suspected poor weather.

Who else was on the plane?

The aircraft was flown by Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Co-pilot Pinky Mali. Both pilots also lost their lives in the accident.