India was thrown into shock on Wednesday morning after a deadly plane crash claimed five lives.
Among the victims was Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar. The tragedy unfolded near Baramati, ending a prominent political career abruptly.
The crash happened on January 28, Pawar, a senior Nationalist Congress Party leader, was travelling for official engagements. He was on his way to public meetings ahead of local body elections.
According to officials, the aircraft went down while attempting to land. The jet burst into flames on impact, leaving no survivors. The Ajit Pawar plane crash has since dominated national headlines.
The Learjet 45 was operated by a private firm, VSR. It took off from Mumbai at about 8.10 am.
However, the aircraft disappeared from radar around 8.45 am.
Officials said the jet was attempting a second landing near Baramati airport. Witnesses reported that the aircraft lost control moments before touchdown. It plunged nearly 100 feet short of the runway before crashing.
Moreover, thick smoke and fire were seen rising from the site. Emergency crews rushed to the area immediately. Despite their efforts, all five occupants were declared dead within minutes.
The victims included two pilots and Pawar’s security personnel. Pawar was 66 years old at the time of his death. Images from the scene showed twisted wreckage and emergency vehicles.
Meanwhile, leaders across India reacted with deep sorrow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the loss as heartbreaking.
He said: “Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra.
His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief. He said the news left him “deeply distressed” and called it a personal loss.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh added that Pawar remained committed to Maharashtra’s progress. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge described the tragedy as “deeply shocking.”
Ajit Pawar served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister. He worked under leaders across different administrations. In 2023, he split the NCP and joined the NDA government.
