Baramati, Maharashtra | January 28, 2026.
In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples across the Indian political landscape, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar passed away this morning following a fatal aircraft accident in Baramati. The veteran leader, known for his administrative grit and deep roots in Maharashtra’s cooperative sector, was 66.
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The Incident: What Happened at Baramati Airport?
The tragedy occurred at approximately 8:50 AM on Wednesday. Ajit Pawar had departed from Mumbai early in the morning via a chartered Learjet 45 (Registration: VT-SSK). He was traveling to his hometown, Baramati, to spearhead a series of public rallies for the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections.
According to preliminary reports from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and local eyewitnesses:
• The Approach: The aircraft encountered technical difficulties and poor visibility during its final approach to Baramati Airport.
• The Impact: The plane reportedly veered off the side of Runway 11, crash-landing at the threshold.
• The Fire: Upon impact, the aircraft suffered multiple explosions and was immediately engulfed in a massive fire.
Local emergency services and airport authorities rushed to the site, but the intensity of the flames made rescue operations nearly impossible.
Victims of the Crash
The DGCA has confirmed that there were no survivors. A total of five (some reports suggest six) individuals were on board:
1. Ajit Pawar (Deputy Chief Minister, Maharashtra)
2. Two Crew Members (Pilot-in-Command and First Officer)
3. Personal Security Officer (PSO)
4. Personal Attendant
National Leaders Express Grief.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep condolences, describing Pawar as a "leader of the people" who was dedicated to Maharashtra’s progress. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated he was "deeply distressed" by the loss of a senior NDA colleague.
Ajit Pawar’s political journey spanned over four decades. From his early days in sugar cooperatives to becoming the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra (holding the post six times under various administrations), his influence was undeniable.
He is survived by his wife, Sunetra Pawar (Rajya Sabha MP), and his two sons, Parth and Jay. His brother, Shriniwas Pawar, confirmed that the last rites will be performed in Baramati.
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