In a solemn display of solidarity, Maharashtra's top leadership gathered in Baramati to offer condolences to the grieving family of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash earlier in the day. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, accompanied by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, visited the NCP chief's residence to personally console Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, and other family members during this difficult time.
Political Leaders Extend Support to Bereaved Family
Visual documentation from news agencies captured the emotional moments as Chief Minister Fadnavis comforted Sunetra Pawar, who serves as a Rajya Sabha MP. The gathering included NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule, who is Pawar's cousin and was visibly emotional alongside other family members as they mourned the sudden loss. The presence of Maharashtra's highest officials underscored the significance of Pawar's contributions to state politics and the profound impact of his untimely demise.
Prime Minister Modi Expresses National Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reached out to NCP chief Sharad Pawar to convey his heartfelt sympathies. In a public statement, the Prime Minister expressed deep sorrow over the tragic aviation incident in Baramati, Maharashtra. "I am profoundly saddened by the tragic plane crash that occurred in Baramati, Maharashtra," Modi stated. "I share in the grief of all those who have lost their loved ones in this devastating accident. My prayers are with the bereaved families as they seek strength and courage during this period of immense sorrow."
State Announces Official Mourning Period
In response to the deputy chief minister's passing, the Maharashtra government has declared a state holiday and instituted three days of official mourning. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings across Maharashtra where it is regularly displayed. Additionally, all state government entertainment programs have been suspended, and government offices will remain closed on Wednesday, January 28, as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
Funeral Arrangements and Investigation Details
The final rites for Ajit Pawar are scheduled to take place in Baramati on Thursday, with Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected to attend the ceremony. The fatal accident occurred when the aircraft carrying Pawar, his personal security officer, and three cabin crew members crashed during its landing approach at Baramati airfield. The incident, which took place around 8:48 AM during the flight from Mumbai to Baramati, has prompted immediate investigation by aviation authorities.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau have dispatched specialized teams to the crash site to conduct a thorough examination and determine the circumstances that led to this tragedy. These investigative efforts aim to provide clarity on the factors contributing to the accident and potentially prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ajit Pawar's Political Legacy
Ajit Pawar leaves behind a remarkable political legacy as Maharashtra's longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister in non-consecutive terms. His distinguished career spanned six separate terms in the deputy chief minister position across various state governments. Pawar served as deputy chief minister under multiple administrations, working alongside Chief Ministers Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray, and Eknath Shinde throughout his extensive political journey.
His sudden departure has created a significant void in Maharashtra's political landscape, with leaders across party lines acknowledging his substantial contributions to the state's governance and development over many years of dedicated public service.
