Maharashtra politics suffered a massive blow as Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar perished in a horrific chartered plane crash at Baramati Airport on Wednesday. The accident claimed five lives, sending shockwaves across the nation. Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani was among the first prominent figures to voice his sorrow publicly.
Posting on X, Adani reminisced about their encounter a month prior during the launch of the AI excellence center named after Sharad Pawar. ‘Ajit Pawar’s vision for progress and faith in India’s future youth was evident that day. Heartbroken by his demise,’ he stated, calling for sustained efforts to realize a progressive Maharashtra.
The incident unfolded around 8:45 AM as Pawar’s flight from Mumbai approached for landing ahead of a key election rally. The plane veered off course, crashing and erupting in fire. Victims included Pawar, his bodyguard, the pilots, and a crew member, as verified by aviation authorities.
Harrowing visuals from the scene showed mangled fuselage, raging inferno, and locals aiding rescue operations. Ambulances ferried survivors, while fire tenders battled the blaze. Authorities mobilized NDRF teams and investigators to probe the cause, suspected to be landing gear failure or adverse weather.
En route for a district-level election event, Pawar’s death disrupts ongoing polls and NCP dynamics. PM Narendra Modi lauded his ground-level leadership and zeal for the underprivileged, expressing deepest condolences to his family and supporters.
President Murmu mourned the loss of a key contributor to cooperative movements and state growth, emphasizing the profound impact on Maharashtra.
Gautam Adani’s tribute underscores Pawar’s stature beyond politics, as a development advocate. As investigations continue, the nation reflects on his enduring contributions, vowing to honor his developmental blueprint for India’s growth story.