The shocking plane crash that claimed Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s life has left the political fraternity reeling. Union Minister of State Ramdass Athawale, visibly moved, led the tributes in Pune, underscoring the deep personal and professional bonds they shared.
During a media interaction, Athawale reminisced, ‘My relations with Ajit Dada were very cordial. His commitment to progress drove him to align with Mahayuti.’ He painted Pawar as a formidable force in politics – authoritative in speech, sharp in resolve, and exemplary in governance and time management.
‘He was candid to a fault, saying exactly what he thought,’ Athawale noted. This loss marks the closure of a vibrant chapter in Maharashtra’s progressive political history, where Pawar stood as a robust defender.
Throughout his career, Pawar voiced strong support for the underprivileged, including Dalits and workers, maintaining firm stances regardless of his position in government. His legacy, Athawale asserted, is indelible in the state’s annals.
Fellow minister Chhagan Bhujbal called for multi-agency inquiries by police, DGCA, and airport officials. ‘Such a major incident demands answers.’ He warned of potential ripples in party structures and state politics following the departure of such a senior leader.
Bhujbal shared a personal note: ‘Ajit Dada’s cheerful demeanor made this news unbelievable. It’s a difficult time ahead.’ As investigations unfold, Maharashtra reflects on a leader whose influence shaped its trajectory.