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Sunday 22/02/2026

Ajit Pawar's Tragic Death in Plane Crash Leaves Political Void in Maharashtra

Plane wreckage in flames with Maharashtra flags at half-mast
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ajit Pawar, deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, died in a plane crash on Wednesday, leaving a significant political vacuum in India's richest state.
  • Maharashtra has declared three days of mourning, with flags at half-mast and public events canceled to honor Pawar's legacy.
  • The crash, which occurred in Pawar's constituency of Baramati, also claimed the lives of two staff members and two crew members.
  • Pawar's political career spanned decades, marked by a notable split from his uncle Sharad Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party in 2023.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other political leaders have expressed condolences, highlighting Pawar's impact on Maharashtra politics.

The sudden death of Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, in a plane crash has sent shockwaves through India's political landscape. The crash, which occurred on Wednesday in Baramati, Pawar's home constituency, also claimed the lives of two staff members and two crew members. As the state grapples with this loss, Maharashtra has declared three days of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and public events canceled to honor Pawar's legacy.

A Storied Political Career

Ajit Pawar, a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, was known for his pragmatic approach and ability to navigate the state's complex political landscape. Born into a political family, he began his career under the mentorship of his uncle, Sharad Pawar, the founder of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Over the years, Ajit Pawar carved out his own path, serving as deputy chief minister multiple times and eventually breaking away from his uncle's party in 2023 to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led coalition.

The Crash and Its Aftermath

The ill-fated flight, which took off from Mumbai, was en route to Baramati when it crash-landed, engulfed in flames. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Visuals from the site depict the wreckage amid plumes of smoke, a stark reminder of the tragedy. Superintendent of Police Sandip Singh Gill stated that an expert team is on-site, working to identify the victims.

Tributes and Condolences

Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow on social media, calling Pawar a "leader of the people" and offering prayers for the bereaved families. Home Minister Amit Shah and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also shared heartfelt messages, underscoring Pawar's dedication to Maharashtra's welfare.

A Political Vacuum

Pawar's death leaves a significant void in Maharashtra's political scene. Known for his blunt and practical style, he was instrumental in reshaping the state's political alliances. His 2023 defection from the NCP to the BJP marked a pivotal moment, fracturing the once-unified Pawar political dynasty. As discussions of reuniting the NCP factions had begun, his untimely death raises questions about the future leadership and potential reunification of the party.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The death of Ajit Pawar could lead to a reshuffling of political alliances in Maharashtra. With his departure, the BJP-led coalition may face challenges in maintaining its hold on the state. The potential reunification of the NCP factions could alter the balance of power, depending on who emerges as Pawar's successor. Experts suggest that the political vacuum might prompt new leaders to rise, reshaping Maharashtra's political landscape in the coming months. As the state mourns, the focus will likely shift to how these developments impact upcoming elections and governance.