Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Plane Crash Near Baramati
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar tragically died in a plane crash near Baramati on Wednesday, 28 January 2026. The aircraft went down during an attempted landing at Baramati Airport in Pune district in the morning hours, killing Pawar and four others on board.
The crash — involving a Learjet 45 aircraft — occurred as the small charter plane was arriving from Mumbai. It veered off the runway while trying to land and caught fire, leaving the wreckage scattered across a field near the airfield. Emergency responders reached the spot quickly but were unable to save any of the occupants.
Who Was on Board?
Ajit Pawar was accompanied by several others when the accident happened:
- Two crew members (pilot and co-pilot)
- Personal security officer
- An attendant
- Ajit Pawar himself, aged 66
All five people on the flight were killed in the crash, and there were no survivors.
Circumstances of the Crash
The aircraft had taken off from Mumbai early in the morning and was heading to Baramati, where Pawar was scheduled to attend a series of public events related to upcoming local elections. Initial reports indicate the plane lost control during landing and crashed near the runway area. Fire and explosions were seen at the crash site, and first responders worked to reach the scene immediately.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the accident. Early details suggest the jet’s balance was lost as it approached the runway, but full findings will depend on the ongoing probe.
Political and Public Reaction
Pawar’s death has triggered a wave of condolences from political leaders across India, reflecting his long career and influence in Maharashtra politics. National figures including the Prime Minister, senior union ministers, state leaders and party members expressed deep sorrow and grief. Messages poured in calling the incident “tragic,” “heartbreaking,” and an “irreparable loss for Maharashtra.”
Many state offices, institutions and public functions were immediately cancelled or postponed as a mark of respect. National and regional leaders prepared to travel to Baramati to pay their respects at memorial events and the upcoming final rites.
Bollywood personalities also expressed their grief on social media, remembering Pawar fondly and acknowledging his contributions to public life.
Ajit Pawar’s Political Legacy
Ajit Pawar was a senior leader in Maharashtra politics and had served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister. He came from a prominent political family and was known for his long career in public service, including leadership within the Nationalist Congress Party. His role in Maharashtra governance spanned decades, and he was particularly influential in the Baramati region, where he had deep roots and strong public support.
In recent years, he led a faction of the NCP that became part of the state’s governing coalition, working with allied parties in the Mahayuti alliance. His unexpected demise leaves a significant gap in leadership for his party and the state government, and it is expected to trigger discussions on political succession within the NCP and the broader alliance.
What Happens Next
Authorities have confirmed that Pawar’s final rites will be held tomorrow with state honours in Baramati. High-level officials, including central and state leaders, are expected to attend funeral proceedings.
The DGCA investigation will examine the aircraft’s technical records, weather conditions at the time of landing, and other factors to determine the precise cause of the crash. Safety regulators and aviation experts will review all available evidence to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Impact on Maharashtra Politics
Ajit Pawar’s sudden death has immediate implications for the Nationalist Congress Party and the ongoing political landscape in Maharashtra. Questions are likely to emerge about party leadership, the future alignment of the NCP with allied political groups, and how Pawar’s absence will influence upcoming elections. Senior leaders within the state and national political circles are expected to meet to chart the next steps in governance and party organization.
In Baramati — where Pawar had long been a dominant political figure — locals described the mood as somber and reflective, with many expressing shock and sadness over the loss of a leader they had known for years.