In a horrifying air accident early Wednesday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed when his chartered plane crashed during landing at Baramati Airport in Pune district. The incident has plunged the state into shock and mourning.
What Happened
A Learjet 45XR chartered aircraft (registration VT-SSK), operated by VSR Aviation, was flying from Mumbai to Baramati.
The jet was attempting to land at Baramati Airport around mid-morning when it veered off the runway and crash-landed in an open field, bursting into flames on impact.
All five people on board — including Mr. Pawar, his security officer, an attendant and two crew members — died in the crash. There were no survivors.
Cause of Crash- Still Under Investigation
At this stage, officials have not confirmed a final cause of the accident. Investigators from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have reached the site to begin a detailed probe. Factors being examined include possible runway excursion during landing, technical issues, pilot actions or weather conditions.
Reaction and Mourning
The death of Ajit Pawar — one of Maharashtra’s most senior political leaders — has triggered a massive outpouring of grief:
The Maharashtra government has declared three days of official state mourning.
Flags are being lowered across the state.
Political leaders from across India, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have expressed shock and condolences.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and other public figures also shared their sorrow at the tragic loss.
Who Was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Pawar, 66, was a long-standing political leader and the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. He served multiple terms in state government and was an influential figure in rural and cooperative politics in western Maharashtra. His sudden death leaves a major void in the state’s political landscape.
