Tributes have poured in from across India and political circles after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash on Wednesday morning. The aircraft went down on Wednesday while landing in Baramati, Pune district, DGCA sources told NDTV Profit. Pawar was among six people onboard the aircraft, all of whom died.
Pawar, 66, was travelling with colleagues when the incident occurred. According to NDTV, Pawar had departed Mumbai at 8 a.m. and was on his way to address four election rallies in his home constituency of Baramati ahead of the local body polls. He had made one of his final public appearances during the Republic Day celebrations on Jan. 26.
Condolences Pour In
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was saddened by the tragic incident. In an X post, he said: “Saddened by the tragic air crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones in the crash. Praying for strength and courage for the bereaved families in this moment of profound grief.”
'Irreparable Loss'
President Droupadi Murmu noted that the untimely demise of Ajit Pawar is an irreparable loss.
In an X post, she said: "The news of the death of several people, including Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash in Baramati, Maharashtra, is extremely tragic. The untimely demise of Ajit Pawar ji is an irreparable loss. He will always be remembered for his special contribution to the development of Maharashtra, especially in the cooperative sector. I express my deep condolences to his family, supporters, and admirers. May God grant strength to the families of all others who lost their lives in this accident to bear this blow.
Describing the incident as deeply shocking, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on X: “Deeply shocked and pained to learn about the untimely demise of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Ajit Pawar. Throughout his long public life, he remained committed to the development and prosperity of Maharashtra. He was known for his compassion for the people and his unwavering dedication to public service. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers, and admirers."
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy said it is “very shocking and sad news.” He added, “I express my condolences to his family."
Congress MP Pramod Tiwari said, "From the visuals being seen on various media channels, it appears to be a serious plane crash. Media reports suggest Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was on board this plane."
'Struggles For Words'
NCP-SCP leader and former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh was seen weeping, struggling for words after he was asked to comment on Pawar's death.
Calling Pawar's demise a huge loss for Maharashtra, Union Minister CR Paatil said," Ajit Pawar ji had made a place for himself in Maharashtra politics. This is a huge loss for his family and the state. The dynamics of politics in Maharashtra will change with his passing away."
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