Ajit Pawar dies in plane crash: Mortal remains reach Vidya Pratishthan, sea of mourners gather

Eyewitnesses at the crash site in Pune district said the body of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was identified through his wristwatch, a personal item he was rarely seen without and was known for as a symbol of his punctuality.

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Wednesday said AAIB will take an in-depth look into the plane crash at the Baramati airport, and there are no safety concerns regarding the aircraft's operator.

Visuals from Vidya Pratishthan Ground in Baramati, Pune district, show a large gathering of mourners paying their last respects to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, whose mortal remains were brought there on Wednesday.

Reacting to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s statement on the demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Wednesday said it was extremely unfortunate to politicise a tragic accident, stressing that Sharad Pawar himself has clarified that there was no conspiracy involved. Shinde said Maharashtra is in deep mourning, with thousands of people gathering and chanting “Ajit Dada, Ajit Dada” to bid farewell, and added that raising suspicions at such a painful moment only hurts the family and the people of the state, urging leaders not to seek political mileage from a tragedy.

Commenting on the crash of the aircraft carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others in Baramati, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said that preliminary information suggests the pilot initially attempted to land but was unable to sight the runway due to poor visibility and was advised a go-around by Air Traffic Control; the aircraft then circled the airport and, after the pilot later reported visual contact with the runway and received clearance to land, the crash occurred during this second landing attempt, with a detailed investigation now underway and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) extending all necessary assistance.

Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar and his son Jay Pawar were seen in tears at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati as the mortal remains of the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister were brought there, with family members, party leaders and supporters gathering to pay their final respects.

Mortal remains of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar brought to Vidya Pratishthan as a sea of mourners gathers to pay final respects.

In his first reaction on Ajit Pawar’s death in a plane crash in Baramati this morning, Sharad Pawar said the incident was purely an accident and politics should not be done on this issue. His reaction came after several political leaders, including Mamata Banerjee, Mallikarjun Kharge and Akhilesh Yadav, sought a probe into the mishap. Read the full story here. 

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s demise, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale says, "His demise is a very big blow to Maharashtra. I have come here to pay my respects to him. I had very good relations with Ajit Dada. He had a vision that there should be development, which is why he had joined the Mahayuti."

Pilot Sumit Kapur, the Pilot-in-Command during the tragic chartered flight crash near Baramati Airport that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others, had a history of disciplinary action. According to records, Kapoor was kept off flying duty without pay for three months and had his instructor status revoked for two years under CAR Section V, Series F, Part III, Issue 1, dated 13 November 2009. Read the full story here. 

Reacting to Ajit Pawar's death, NCP leader Sharad Pawar said, "Purely an accident, no politics in this." 

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Governor Acharya Devvrat visited Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, to offer their condolences following his tragic death in a plane crash.

A photograph showing Ajit Pawar with his security personnel has surfaced, with party leaders claiming the image was taken earlier today, shortly before the tragic crash.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday stirred a political storm by casting doubts over the circumstances surrounding NCP chief Ajit Pawar’s death in a plane crash, claiming he was set to leave the NDA and join the INDIA bloc, and calling for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation, remarks that drew a sharp rebuttal from the BJP.

“Somebody from another party had said that Ajit Pawar would leave the BJP. Now look at what has happened today. I want a proper investigation under the monitoring of the Supreme Court. Nobody is safe here. He was supposed to join back — I had seen that so how did this crash happen?" she said. Responding to this BJP spokesperson Tuhin Sinha hit out at Mamata Banerjee, saying “such vulture-like behaviour" is avoidable in this hour of tragedy.

Mortal remains of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar being taken to Vidya Pratishthan ground for the public to pay their last respects to him.

Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde arrived at Baramati airport after Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a charter plane crash while attempting a landing earlier this morning.

After the tragic plane crash in Baramati that killed Ajit Pawar, the NCP leader's 2024 X post is now resurfacing. "When we travel by helicopter or plane, if our plane or helicopter lands smoothly, we understand that the pilot is a woman," Pawar wrote to showcase NCP's woman empowerment push.

After the tragic crash that killed NCP's Ajit Pawar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sharad Pawar and expressed his condolences, ANI reported.

NCP supporters with a photo of their party chief & Deputy CM Ajit Pawar gather in large numbers outside Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College in Baramati.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena president Raj Thackeray on Wednesday said that in the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the state has lost an outstanding leader with a precise grip on the administration, and someone who was remarkably straightforward and free of caste bias. 

In a post on X, Thackeray said, "My friend and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has passed away. Maharashtra's politics has lost an outstanding leader." He said Pawar and he entered politics around the same time.
But on the strength of his sheer passion for politics, Pawar took great strides in Maharashtra's political arena, he said. "Though Ajit Pawar was a leader forged in the mold of (Sharad) Pawar saheb, he later carved out his own independent identity. And he imprinted that identity in every nook and corner of Maharashtra," the MNS president said.

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's demise in a plane crash, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said, "I am deeply shocked to hear the news of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's death in a plane crash this morning. Even political leaders are not safe in this country, let alone common people. Two days ago, I came to know that someone from another party had given a statement that Pawar was willing to leave the BJP, and now this has happened today. I demand a proper investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court. We have trust only in the Supreme Court and no other agency. All agencies have been completely compromised. It is truly a great loss. Today he is in the opposition, but tomorrow he was supposed to return to the original course of his party. My condolences to his family, the people of Maharashtra, and to Sharad Pawar."

The last rites of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar will be performed with full state honours, the Maharashtra General Administration Department (Protocol) informs. During the three-day mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings across Maharashtra where it is regularly hoisted. No government entertainment programmes will be organised during this period. All state government offices across Maharashtra will remain closed on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's allegation over Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's demise in plane crash, said, "It is unfortunate that today we have lost a trustworthy leader who played an influential role in Maharashtra's politics continuously for the last 40 years. Throughout his working life, he dedicated himself entirely to public welfare. Losing such a leader suddenly due to an accident is certainly extremely painful. It is also very difficult to believe. While offering our heartfelt tributes to the departed soul, it must be said that since this is a matter of an air accident, international protocols exist for the investigation of such incidents, and an inquiry is inevitable. Such accidents are not confined to a single country. They become a subject of investigation, research, and learning for the entire world. There will certainly be a detailed investigation into this as well. I believe that at this moment, for all of us, this is a time to express grief, to convey our condolences to the departed soul, and to share our sympathies. Right now, we should all remain focused on that and act accordingly."

Baramati is an uncontrolled airfield and traffic information is provided by the instructors/Pilot from the Flying training Organisations at Baramati.  As per the statement of the person manning the ATC following are the sequence of events:

• On 28th January 2026 the aircraft VI-SSK first came in contact with Baramati at 0818 IST.
• The aircraft's next call was at 30 NM inbound to Baramati and they were released by Pune approach. They were advised to descend in Visual Meteorological conditions at pilot's discretion.
• The crew enquired about the winds and visibility and they were informed that the winds were calm and visibility was around 3000 mts.
• Next the aircraft reported on the final approach of Runway 11 and the runway was not in sight to them. They initiated a go-around in the first approach.
• After Go Around, the aircraft was asked about its position and crew reported on final approach of runway 11.
• They were asked to report runway in sight. They replied “runway is currently not in sight, will call when runway is in sight". After a few seconds they reported that the runway is in sight.
• The aircraft was cleared to land on runway 11 at 0843IST, however, they did not give a readback of the landing clearance.
• Next, the ATC saw the flames around the threshold of runway 11 at 0844 IST. The emergency services then rushed to the crash site.
• The wreckage of the aircraft is located on the left side of the runway abeam threshold R/W 11.
• AAIB has taken over the investigation, DG, AAIB is reaching the accident site for investigation. Further details of the same as and when available will be shared.

"We have lost a strong leader and a great colleague from my cabinet,” said Shiv Sena (UBT) party chief Uddhav Thackeray, paying tribute to Ajit Pawar.

Ajit Pawar was the Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister in Uddhav Thackeray's cabinet. He was a highly disciplined leader, with a strong command over his department and a deep understanding of finance. I shared a special bond with him as an outstanding colleague. Ajit Pawar had a frank and open nature. He spoke his mind freely. He harbored no ill will. Even though he chose a different path in politics, he never let our relationship break, said Uddhav Thackeray.

He was popularly known as 'Dada' in Maharashtra. It never felt like he would leave us so prematurely. He was known as a leader who cared deeply for his party workers. His passing has created a void in the state's leadership. He was truly a ‘Dada’ in every sense of the word. My heartfelt condolences to Dada, on behalf of the Thackeray family and the Shiv Sena family!

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday described Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's tragic death in a plane crash as unbelievable, and said he had lost a good friend. Fadnavis said "today" (January 28) will be a government holiday and there will be a three-day state mourning as a mark of respect to Pawar. Ajit Pawar's death has left a void that will never be filled, he said. "After working closely together, it is unbelievable that he is no more," Fadnavis said. Talking to reporters, Fadnavis described Pawar as a people's leader who knew the state well and had a deep understanding of the issues in Maharashtra. He said it takes several years to build and establish such leadership.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann cancelled his Goa visit scheduled on Wednesday, following the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, the Aam Aadmi Party said. AAP Goa president Valmiki Naik announced the cancellation of the Punjab CM’s visit to the coastal state. AAP governs the northern state of Punjab. "The news of the tragic demise of Maharashtra Dy CM Shri Ajit Pawar is sad & shocking. Our heartfelt condolences to his family & to the families of the other victims," Naik wrote on X.

As a mark of respect, Mann’s visit to Goa on January 28 has been cancelled, he said. 

Ajit Pawar (66) and four other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed in Maharashtra's Pune district on Wednesday morning, officials said. The incident occurred when the plane carrying Pawar and others landed near Baramati, they said.

External Affairs Minister of India, S Jaishankar said, "Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His contributions to Maharashtra's progress and development will always be remembered. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and admirers."

On the plane crash and demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Pune Rural SP Sandeep Singh said," The aircraft carrying 5 people crashed just before landing at around 8:40 am today. Five people have died in this incident, and their bodies have been brought to the hospital here. We will provide an update after the bodies are identified. An expert team is present at the crash site."

Lok Sabha pays obituary to Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who was a former MP. He died in a crash landing in Baramati this morning.

 NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar arrives at Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College, Baramati, where mortal remains of all five deceased, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, are kept.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into Ajit Pawar's death in a plane crash, saying she has no faith in any agency.

Following the plane crash, Kolhapur Range IG Sunil Phulari reaches the accident spot.

1. Flight recorder to be retrieved 
2. EGPWS (Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System) and DEES (Digital Engine Electronic
System) to be extracted from the aircraft 3. Airframe and engine logbooks, work orders, on-board documents, and major inspection records related to aircraft to be gathered from the operator for scrutiny.
4. DGCA documents/files related to Crew and Aircraft are being sought.
5. Statements from witnesses and concerned personnel to be obtained.
6. Recordings of radar data, CCTV footage, ATC tape recordings, and hotline communications to
be obtained for further analysis.

CM Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, said, "Dada has left us! The news of the death of Ajitdada Pawar, the people's leader with a deep connection to the land, my friend and colleague, the Deputy Chief Minister, in a plane crash is extremely heartbreaking. It is a shock to the soul. The mind is numb. I have no words to express my emotions.   I have lost my strong and generous friend. This is a personal loss for me. This is a loss that can never be compensated. Today is an extremely difficult day for Maharashtra.   I pay my heartfelt tribute to Dada.   We share the grief of his entire family and the NCP family. Four other people also died in this accident. We share the grief of their families as well.   I have canceled all my programs. I am leaving for Baramati shortly."

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will probe the plane crash at Baramati airport that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others on Wednesday. The Learjet 46, operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures, crash-landed at the airport. There were five people onboard, including the crew members, according to the aviation regulator DGCA. A senior official told PTI that the AAIB will be visiting the crash site and it will be investigating the accident. AAIB is responsible for classifying safety occurrences involving aircraft operating in Indian airspace as accidents, serious incidents, or incidents. It carries out detailed investigations into accidents and also suggests measures to improve safety.

According to sources, Ajit Pawar's body was identified by his watch. His watch became his only means of identification. This gives an idea of ​​the horrific nature of the accident.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) workers and supporters gathered at the NCP office in Delhi to pay tribute to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar following his tragic demise in the plane crash earlier today at Baramati Airport. 

Maharashtra Minister and NCP leader Babasahib Patil and NCP leader Vikram Kale tearfully mourn the demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expresses grief over the demise of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar in an aircraft crash. He said, "This morning, a very tragic incident occurred. In extremely unforeseen circumstances, the news of the unfortunate demise of our state’s deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar, in an aircraft accident reached everyone, spreading a wave of grief across Maharashtra. For Maharashtra, today is an extremely difficult day. Such leadership takes many years to develop, and at a time when he was making very significant contributions to the state’s development, his passing is both unbelievable and shocking. Personally, I have lost a strong and generous friend. This is also an enormous loss for his family."

Apart from Ajit Pawar, the four other people were on the plane.

• Vindip Jadhav (Bodyguard)
• Pinky Mali (Cabin Crew)
• Sumit Kapoor (Captain)
• Shambhavi Patil (Captain)

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis declared three days of state mourning after untimely demise of Deputy CM and NCP chief Ajit Pawar in plane crash on Wednesday morning.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy D K Shivakumar joined many others to condole the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an air crash on Wednesday. In their condolence message on X, they expressed grief over the tragedy. "Deeply saddened by the tragic demise of Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Pawar, in the aircraft crash. His passing is a profound loss to public life," Siddaramaiah said.
He also said, "may his soul rest in peace, and may his loved ones find the strength to endure this irreparable loss".

Shivakumar said, "Shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Maharashtra Deputy CM Shri Ajit Pawar in a tragic plane crash. His sudden demise is a great loss to public life and to Maharashtra politics, where he served with experience and resolve."

Plane crash will be probed, said Eknath Shinde.

The chartered aircraft in which Ajit Pawar was travelling was a Learjet 45, a well-known business jet in the charter aviation segment. Although production of the Learjet series was discontinued in 2021, the aircraft continues to be widely operated, with servicing and maintenance support still in place. Globally, around 200 accidents have been linked to Learjet aircraft, yet the model remains a popular choice for charter operations. READ

The Governor of Maharashtra and Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, has expressed condolences on the demise of the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash near Baramati earlier today. "I was deeply saddened by the untimely demise of the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Pawar ji in a plane crash near Baramati.  I pay my respects to Shri Ajit Pawar Ji and convey my heartfelt condolences to all the members of the bereaved family. Om Shanti."

For Ajit Pawar, it was a perennial case of "Always the bridesmaid, never the bride", as the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister for a record six times passed away in a tragic air crash on Wednesday, without realising his goal of becoming the chief minister. For the 66-year-old grassroots politician, the end came in Baramati, his home turf. A seasoned politician, Ajit Pawar never hid his desire to become the state’s CM. Before joining the BJP and Shiv Sena alliance government in July 2023, he was deputy CM when Devendra Fadnavis was the CM in November 2019, their government lasting barely two days.

Pawar was known to be a workaholic, and was famous for his punctuality, unlike many politicians notorious for their tardiness. He had the record of becoming the deputy chief minister in several governments, led by the Congress, Shiv Sena and BJP. His political career was marked by twists and turns, and he was always the survivor, be it the alleged Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scam or the recent controversy over his son Parth’s land deal in Pune.

Affectionately called "Dada" (elder brother), Ajit Pawar was known to speak his mind and did not mince words while expressing his view especially before a rural audience.

On the passing away of his colleague Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde said," It is an unfortunate day for Maharashtra. This is a painful incident for us and whole of Maharashtra. Ajit Dada was a man of his word. We worked as a team when I was the CM, and he was Dy CM. As team we had started the Ladli Behen Yojana, and Ajit dada played an important role in it.."

During the Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat under the chairmanship of Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Cabinet observed a two-minute silence to pay tribute to Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, along with 2 more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendant) and 2 crew (PIC+FO) members on their demise in the crash landing in Baramati.

 Visuals from the crash site show aircraft wreckage. Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and five others killed in Pune district earlier today. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's demise is a personal loss not only for the NDA family but also for him. In a message posted on 'X', Shah said, "The way Ajit Pawar ji dedicated himself to the welfare of every section of society in Maharashtra over the past three-and-a-half decades cannot be expressed in words. "Today, the news of the loss of Maharashtra's deputy chief minister and our senior NDA colleague Ajit Pawar ji in a tragic accident has left my heart deeply distressed," he said.

Expressing deepest condolences to the Pawar family, Shah said that in this hour of grief, the entire NDA stands firmly with the bereaved Pawar family. "Whenever we met, he would engage in long discussions on numerous issues related to the welfare of the people of Maharashtra. His passing is a personal loss not only for the NDA family but also for me," the home minister said. "May God grant the departed soul a place at his divine feet. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti," he said.

Sandeep Singh Gill, Superintendent of Police, Pune Rural, of the Pune Police Force, has provided information regarding the plane crash in Baramati. Sandeep Singh Gill said that three bodies were recovered from the accident site. The aircraft sustained significant damage in the crash. The three bodies found at the scene have been sent to the hospital. According to the police, none of the victims has been identified yet.

Mortal remains of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar brought to Baramati Medical College following his demise along with five others in an aircraft crash. Visuals from outside the hospital.

Ajit Pawar's supporters in Nagpur are distraught and weeping uncontrollably.  They are heading to Baramati by road, rail, and air. Following news of the alleged death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, all the party workers in Nagpur are gathering at the residence of former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh. Some of Ajit Pawar's supporters are heading directly to Baramati via Pune by flight, while others are traveling from Mumbai to Baramati. Those who couldn't get a flight are traveling to Baramati by road. All the party workers of Ajit Pawar are in a state of shock and grief. These workers said that Ajit Pawar's greatest quality was that he greatly encouraged young party workers, addressed everyone by name, and praised and encouraged them for their good work.

The chartered plane that Ajit Pawar was traveling in was a Learjet business jet. The company stopped its production in 2021. There have been 200 accidents involving this type of plane worldwide yet it remains a popular choice. However, service and maintenance of existing aircraft continue. Learjet is world-renowned in the category of chartered aircraft. It has a seating capacity of only 6 to 8 people.

This company was started in 1960 by Canadian businessman William Powell Lear. This aircraft is under the ownership of Bombardier Aerospace (Canada). Although the company stopped its production in 2021, service and maintenance of existing aircraft continue.

The Learjet 45 model has a top speed of 860 kilometers per hour, while its cruising speed is also approximately the same. The range of this aircraft is 1,900 to 2,200 nautical miles, or about 3,500 to 4,000 kilometers.

Its rate of climb is also quite fast. This chartered plane can reach an altitude of 41,000 feet in just 18 to 20 minutes. The interior of the aircraft has a height of approximately 6 feet. It has Wi-Fi and satellite phone facilities.

This plane is considered perfect for landing and taking off on short runways. It is equipped with a twin turbofan engine from the Canadian company Pratt & Whitney. This makes it fuel-efficient. The aircraft features digital flight controls, improving navigation and safety.

• The location and condition of the wreckage found at the accident site will be carefully examined and photographed to understand the speed and angle at which the aircraft crashed.
• The black box will be examined to determine the technical condition of the aircraft during the flight and whether it was airworthy.
• All records related to pre-flight maintenance will be reviewed.
• The cockpit voice recording will provide information about the pilots' conversations and decisions in the final moments.
• The official records of communication between the pilot and air traffic control (ATC) will be examined to clarify the cause of the error.
• In addition, external factors such as weather, runway conditions, and wind direction will also be included in the investigation.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said, "It is very sad that this incident has occurred. This is an extremely painful moment for the Pawar family. At this time, I can only pray to God that He gives them the strength to endure this sorrow."

On the demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an aircraft crash, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said, "The death of Ajit Pawar is extremely sad and unfortunate. For the past 40 years, he has been a very close friend of mine in Maharashtra politics. I shared familial relations with him as well. His passing is a huge loss."

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in an X post, said, "The news of the demise of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar Ji and his fellow travelers in an airplane accident today is extremely heartbreaking. In this moment of grief, I stand with the people of Maharashtra. I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and their loved ones during this hour of sorrow."

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu said, "Shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji in a plane crash this morning. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and followers. Om Shanthi."

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday condoled the demise of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, saying his untimely death is an irreparable loss. In a post on X, she said Pawar will always be remembered for his special contribution to the development of Maharashtra, especially in the cooperative sector. Pawar and four other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed in Pune district on Wednesday morning, officials 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," she said in the post in Hindi. Murmu expressed 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," the President said.

 NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar, along with his wife, Pratibha Pawar, leaves for Baramati from their Mumbai residence, Silver Oaks.

On the death of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, BJP MP Ashok Chavan said," This is our personal loss. His passing away has left a huge vacuum in Maharashtra politics. I express my tributes to him."

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar’s demise and the death of five others in an aircraft crash said, "This is very sad and tragic news. Today is a dark day in Maharashtra’s political and social life. When the news came this morning that the plane carrying Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar from Mumbai to Baramati had met with an accident, we were all praying for his safety. His passing has brought a mountain of grief upon Maharashtra. There was a special bond between Baramati and him, and it is a strange coincidence that he passed away there. I never imagined that we would have to pay tribute to him like this."

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge posts, "The news of the tragic demise of Shri Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash, is deeply shocking and profoundly distressing. It is an untimely loss of a leader who had a long and promising political career ahead.  No words can adequately express the immense grief that the bereaved family must be enduring during this difficult hour. I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Pawar family, his supporters and well-wishers.  Having served the people of Maharashtra in various constitutional capacities, Shri Ajit Pawar shall be remembered as a seasoned politcian who discharged his responsibilities towards his people with sincerity and astuteness. May his soul rest in peace."

Union Minister, Kiren Rijiju said, "Deeply pained to learn about the untimely demise of Dy CM of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Pawar ji. He always stood with the people, working tirelessly for the growth & prosperity of Maharashtra. My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones & supporters."

On the death of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar in a crash landing in Baramati, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut says, "This is such horrible news...There are not enough words to express."

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a plane crash, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and his supporters. I have spoken to Ajit Pawar's wife and Supriya ji (Supriya Sule)."

Visuals from outside the Pune residence of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who died in a charter plane crash in Baramati today.

On the demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said, "We all are mournful today. He was a close friend and a tall leader in Maharashtra."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday expressed shock over the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash in Pune district. She also called for proper investigation into the incident. "Deeply shocked and stunned by the suddden demise of Ajit Pawar! The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and his co-passengers have died in a disastrous plane crash at Baramati today morning, and I am feeling a deep sense of loss. My condolences to his family including his uncle Sharad Pawar ji, and late Ajitji's all friends and followers," Banerjee said in a post on X.

"The incident needs proper investigation," she added. 

Former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has died in a plane crash today after an aircraft carrying them crash-landed in Baramati, Maharashtra while attempting to land.  According to DGCA, five people, including the crew, on board the chartered plane flying from Mumbai, Maharashtra, to Baramati died after a crash-landing at 8.45 am this morning. The crash landing of the Mumbai-Baramati charter plane occurred at the runway threshold in Baramati. Pawar was onboard along with 2 more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendent) and 2 crew members.  READ

Baramati Plane Crash: Key Details

• Time of Incident: Approximately 8:45 AM today (January 28, 2026).
• Location: Baramati Airport, Pune district, Maharashtra.
• Aircraft Type: Private charter plane.
• Key Passenger: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was on board the aircraft.

Sequence of Events and Current Situation

• Cause of the Accident: According to preliminary information, the aircraft was traveling from Mumbai to Baramati. Due to a technical malfunction during landing, the pilot lost control, causing the plane to skid off the runway and catch fire.
• Latest Reports: The situation is currently extremely serious. Unconfirmed reports suggest that Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and 3 other people on board are feared dead. However, this has not yet been officially confirmed by the administration or the state government.
• Relief Efforts: Local police and fire department teams are on the scene. A security cordon has been established around the airport, and all flights at the airport have been suspended.

Important Points 

• Purpose of Travel: Ajit Pawar was traveling from Mumbai to Baramati for campaigning ahead of the upcoming Zilla Parishad (District Council) elections.
• Investigation Ordered: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered a high-level inquiry into the matter to determine the exact causes of the accident.
• Official Response: An emergency meeting of the state cabinet may be convened.

In an X post, "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."

Five people onboard the Mumbai-Baramati charter plane, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, died as per initial information by the DGCA. Visuals from the spot show the wreckage of the aircraft.

Ajit Pawar's nephew, Yugendra Pawar, was seen talking on the phone and crying. Five people onboard the Mumbai-Baramati charter plane, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, died as per initial information by the DGCA.    

Ministry of Civil Aviation said: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar dies in plane crash. A Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) aircraft, operated by VSR, crash landed at Baramati airport early today. There were five personnel on board, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar along with two more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendent) and 2 crew (PIC+FO) members. As per initial information, no person on board has survived the crash.

NCP-SCP leader and former Maharashtra Home Minister, Anil Deshmukh, fails to find words and breaks down on news of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's passing away.

An eyewitness at the spot said, "I saw it with my eyes. This is really painful. When the aircraft descended, it seemed it would crash, and it did crash. It then exploded. There was a massive explosion. After that, we rushed here and saw that the aircraft was on fire. There were 4-5 explosions in the aircraft again. More people came here, and they tried to pull the people out (of the aircraft). But since this was a huge fire, people could not help. Ajit Pawar was onboard and this is really painful for us. I can't describe it in words..."

A crowd of people started gathering outside Ahilyabai Holkar Hospital. Five people onboard the Mumbai-Baramati charter plane, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, died as per initial information by the DGCA.  

On the demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an aircraft crash, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "This very sad news came early in the morning. Ajit Pawar ji himself was among the young leadership of Maharashtra, committed and dedicated to the cause of the state. Whatever responsibility he took on, he fulfilled it with complete commitment. We had our differences, but we also had the opportunity to work together. I met him many times on matters connected with the Pawar family. For me, this loss is deeply painful."

Five people onboard the Mumbai-Baramati charter plane, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, died as per initial information by the DGCA.   

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a charter plane crash, Uttar Pradesh Dy CM Brajesh Pathak said, "We are getting really sad news about Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. I pray that God gives strength to his family members and party members at this time. We stand with his family during this hour."

Union Minister Giriraj Singh said, "This is a really unfortunate incident. Reports are coming in that Ajit Pawar was also onboard. If it is true, then this is a highly unfortunate day. This is a heart-rending incident. May God give strength to the affected families...He was not just the Deputy CM of Maharashtra but also a well-known politician in the country. This is an irreparable loss."

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a charter plane crash, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy said," It is very shocking and sad news. I express my condolences to his family."

On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a charter plane crash, DMK MP T Siva said," It is very sad. I have no words to express the grief. He was such a dynamic politician."

 On Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a charter plane crash, Congress MP Imran Masood said," The passing away of such an energetic leader suddenly is very saddening. Our sympathies lie with this family."

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar died today, along with four others, in a tragic plane crash in Baramati. According to reports, he was travelling from Mumbai to Pune in an aircraft operated by VSR Aviation. Here are all the details of the aircraft Ajit Pawar was travelling in. READ

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash on Wednesday morning. The plane had taken off from Mumbai for Baramati. It failed to land in Baramati and crashed before reaching the runway. Pawar was traveling from Mumbai to attend a meeting in Baramati today. See the location of the crash in Baramati on Google Maps. READ

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the phone to inquire about the incident involving Ajit Pawar.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar passes away in a chartered plane crash in Baramati. Ajit Pawar, Deputy CM of Maharashtra, was onboard along with 2 more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendant) and 2 crew (PIC+FO) members in the charter plane. As per initial information, no person on board has survived the crash: DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).

The crash landing of Mumbai-Baramati charter plane happened at the runway threshold in Baramati. On January 28, 2026, a Learjet 45 aircraft (registration VT-SSK) operated by VSR crash-landed at Baramati Airport while carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, along with one personal security officer, one attendant, and two crew members, and as per initial information, none of the five people onboard survived the crash.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed in Pune district on Wednesday morning, officials said. The incident occurred when Pawar's plane was landing in Pune's Baramati area, they said.

Ajit Pawar was in Mumbai on Tuesday, where he attended a meeting of the Maharashtra Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure chaired by CM Devendra Fadnavis. Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, and concerned officials were present.

Pawar was headed to Baramati to attend a public rally for the Zilla Parishad Elections. A Mumbai to Baramati charter plane crash landed at 8.45 am in Baramati, Maharashtra, today. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was on board.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's aircraft involved in an accident in Baramati. The aircraft belonged to VSR company.

Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar, and Parth Pawar left for Baramati from Delhi.

According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), six people were killed in the plane crash in Baramati. 

(Input: Sachin Chaudhary)

Mumbai to Baramati charter plane crash landed at 8.45 am in Baramati, Maharashtra. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was on board. More details awaited.

A plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar crash-landed in Baramati on Wednesday morning. Initial reports indicate that multiple people were injured in the crash, and Pawar is believed to have sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital, though official confirmation from authorities regarding his condition is still awaited. It is being reported that Ajit Pawar was on a visit to Baramati today, and the accident occurred during the landing there. According to sources, some people on board the aircraft have been injured. However, official confirmation regarding Ajit Pawar's condition is still awaited. The administration and security agencies have reached the spot and are assessing the situation.

A plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar crash-landed in Baramati, Maharashtra, on Wednesday while attempting to land.