Tragic Air Accident Claims Senior Leader
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Baramati, Pune district, on Wednesday morning (January 28, 2026). Four others travelling with him on the aircraft also died in the accident, officials confirmed.
Details of the Flight
The aircraft involved was a Bombardier Learjet 45, operated by VSR Ventures. According to aviation and police officials, the jet departed from Mumbai at 8:10 a.m. Flight tracking data showed that it disappeared from radar around 8:45 a.m., before crashing at approximately 8:50 a.m. in Pune district. There were five people on board, all of whom died.
Purpose of the Journey
Ajit Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati to address public meetings related to the campaign for the February 5 zilla parishad elections in Maharashtra. His death has come as a major shock to the State’s political establishment.
Sharad Pawar Appeals for Restraint
NCP leader Sharad Pawar described Ajit Pawar’s death as “a big shock for Maharashtra” and urged that the tragedy not be politicised, calling it an unfortunate accident.
Probe Into the Crash
A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has reached the crash site to begin a forensic investigation. Officials said the inquiry will examine technical aspects of the aircraft, flight data, and other contributing factors.
State Mourns
Leaders and citizens across Maharashtra expressed grief over the sudden loss. Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, paid her respects to the mortal remains at Baramati earlier in the day.
