Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tragically died in a plane crash along with five others on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, while attempting to land at Baramati Airport in Pune district, India. The crash has sent shockwaves across the state and the nation, with political leaders and citizens mourning the loss of a senior leader.

The chartered Learjet 45 (VT‑SSK), operated by VSR Aviation, was en route from Mumbai to Baramati for local election campaigning ahead of Zilla Parishad polls. Preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft veered off the runway and caught fire upon landing, killing all occupants, including Pawar, a personal security officer, attendants, and two crew members. (Times of India)

Circumstances of the Crash

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the jet lost control near the runway threshold, leading to a catastrophic impact. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has confirmed the crash and stated that a full investigation will be launched to determine technical, mechanical, or environmental causes. Aviation safety teams are expected to examine the wreckage in detail to prevent future incidents. (Economic Times)

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Political Impact and Tributes

Pawar, a veteran Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, was a central figure in Maharashtra politics. Nephew of Sharad Pawar, he served multiple tenures as Deputy Chief Minister and played a crucial role in shaping state policy, budgets, and rural development initiatives. (Outlook India)

Political leaders across India have expressed grief. President Droupadi Murmu described Pawar’s death as an “irreparable loss”, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences to the families of all victims. Leaders highlighted Pawar’s contributions to state governance, cooperative sectors, and rural development.

State Mourning and Legacy

In response to the tragedy, Maharashtra has declared a three-day state mourning, with flags flown at half-mast. Public offices, educational institutions, and government buildings observed the mourning period, reflecting the profound impact of the loss on the state’s governance and political community.

Ajit Pawar’s death has sparked discussions on aviation safety for VIP travel, the political future of Maharashtra, and the importance of ensuring secure and reliable air transport for public officials. Authorities have pledged full cooperation in the DGCA-led investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Baramati Plane Crash