CM Devendra Fadnavis Mourns Ajit Pawar: 'Lost a Strong, Large-Hearted Friend'
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow on Wednesday following the tragic death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash in Baramati. Fadnavis described the incident as shocking and called it the most difficult day for the state.
Irreparable Loss for Maharashtra
Addressing the media, Fadnavis stated, "It is an irreparable loss which cannot be described in words. Personally, I have lost a strong and large-hearted friend. In Ajit Pawar, I had a colleague who made an immense contribution to development politics." The Nationalist Congress Party leader, aged 66, was killed along with four others when their aircraft crashed while landing at Baramati airport earlier in the day.
A Politician Who Knew Every Corner of Maharashtra
The Maharashtra chief minister emphasized that Ajit Pawar was a politician with exceptional knowledge of the state. "He was very well versed with the state's problems. He was a good administrator with vast experience and knowledge," Fadnavis remarked. He highlighted how Pawar rose through political ranks through dedicated hard work and persistent struggle, evolving into a leader who could face challenges without wavering.
Deep Connection to the Masses
Fadnavis further noted that Ajit Pawar maintained a profound connection with the people of Maharashtra. "He was deeply connected to the masses. It takes several years to evolve into such leadership," he added. The sudden demise has plunged the entire state into grief, particularly affecting his party, the NCP, with Fadnavis assuring support during these challenging times.
Government Response and Mourning Period
The Maharashtra government has declared three days of state mourning in honor of Ajit Pawar. As a mark of respect:
- The national flag will be flown at half-mast across the state from January 28 to January 30
- No official entertainment events will be held during this period
- All state government offices remained closed on Wednesday
Fadnavis informed that he has apprised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the tragic incident, both of whom expressed shock and grief. Further arrangements will be made after consulting the Pawar family, with Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde planning to visit Baramati.
The plane crash that claimed Ajit Pawar's life occurred after approximately 35 minutes of flight time. The aircraft belonged to a Delhi-based charter operator, adding another layer of tragedy to the sudden loss of a prominent political figure who had forged his own path in Maharashtra politics.
