Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Killed in Baramati Plane Crash
In a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across India, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed on Wednesday morning when a chartered plane crashed near Baramati Airport in Pune district. The VSR Aviation Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) was carrying five people, all of whom perished in the accident.
The aircraft had departed from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and was on final approach to land in Baramati, Pawar’s hometown, around 8:45 a.m. The Deputy CM was travelling to attend election-related events for the upcoming Zilla Parishad polls.
Details of the Crash and Investigation
Officials reported the aircraft lost control during its landing phase, veered off the runway, and burst into flames upon impact. Emergency services responded immediately but found no survivors. Eyewitnesses described a scene of fire and scattered debris.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Authorities will examine flight data, maintenance records, and weather conditions.
Victims on Board the Fatal Flight
The crash claimed the lives of all five individuals on board:
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Ajit Pawar, 66, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and senior NCP leader.
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Two crew members, including the pilot and first officer.
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Pawar’s security officer.
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An attendant.
National Grief and Political Reactions
The sudden death of the veteran politician prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness, calling the crash “tragic.”
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was “deeply shocked and pained,” praising Pawar’s public service.
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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee called for a thorough probe and offered her condolences.
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NCP leader Supriya Sule, Pawar’s cousin, said she was “devastated” and immediately travelled to Baramati to be with the family, including Pawar’s wife Sunetra and son Parth.
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Legacy of a Political Stalwart
Ajit Pawar was one of Maharashtra’s most seasoned politicians, having served as Deputy Chief Minister a record number of times. His death creates a significant void in the state’s political landscape, particularly within the ruling coalition and the NCP.
Maharashtra has entered a period of official mourning as the nation reflects on the decades-long career of a formidable leader. The aviation investigation continues as authorities work to determine the precise sequence of events that led to this fatal crash.
