Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announces three-day mourning; leaders across India pay tribute to veteran Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
In a heartbreaking development that has plunged Maharashtra into deep sorrow, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar passed away in a tragic plane crash on Wednesday morning. Reacting to the sudden loss, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a state holiday and declared three days of mourning across Maharashtra. The announcement was made during a press conference held in Mumbai, where a visibly emotional Fadnavis described the incident as “an irreparable loss to the state and to me personally.”
Ajit Pawar, fondly called “Ajit Dada” by his supporters and colleagues, was among the most experienced politicians in Maharashtra’s political landscape. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the state’s political, social, and public circles, with leaders cutting across party lines expressing grief over his passing.
Chief Minister Fadnavis Announces Mourning, Calls It a Personal Loss
Addressing reporters at Mantralaya, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “Today, we have declared a state holiday and three days of state mourning. This is a completely irreparable loss for the state of Maharashtra. Ajit Dada was a hardworking and determined leader who never wavered, no matter how tough the circumstances were. His death is not only a loss to the government but also a personal loss for me — a friend has left me.”
He added that a wave of grief has swept across Maharashtra following the news. Fadnavis also confirmed that he, along with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, will be leaving for Baramati, Pawar’s hometown, to pay their last respects. “I have spoken to Supriya Tai (Supriya Sule) and Parth Pawar. The details of the last rites will be finalized after consultations with the family,” he stated.
Fadnavis further informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah had personally reached out to extend their condolences on the tragic loss. “Both have expressed deep sorrow and assured that the entire nation stands with Maharashtra in this moment of grief,” he added.
Emotional Scenes in Baramati as State Mourns
As the news of Pawar’s passing spread, thousands of supporters, party workers, and citizens gathered in Baramati, the political stronghold of the Pawar family. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the mortal remains of Ajit Pawar were brought to the Baramati hospital, followed by a large crowd chanting “Ajit Dada Amar Rahe.”
Among those present at the hospital were NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) working president Praful Patel, NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule, Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar, and son Parth Pawar, who travelled from New Delhi following the tragic incident. Senior leaders and dignitaries are expected to reach Baramati by late evening to pay their last respects.
A Political Career Full of Milestones
Ajit Pawar, 66, was one of Maharashtra’s most influential political figures, known for his sharp administrative acumen and grassroots connect. The nephew of veteran leader and NCP founder Sharad Pawar, Ajit Dada carved out his own distinct political identity through decades of tireless service and leadership.
He first entered politics under the mentorship of his uncle, Sharad Pawar, and quickly rose through the ranks owing to his efficient management and decisive leadership style. Over his career spanning nearly four decades, he served as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra six times, a record in the state’s political history. His stints included serving under the leadership of Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray, and Eknath Shinde.
Known for his no-nonsense attitude and straightforward communication, Ajit Pawar built a reputation as a doer — someone who preferred results over rhetoric. His administrative skills were evident in sectors such as water resources, agriculture, and infrastructure development, where he introduced several transformative policies and projects aimed at improving the lives of farmers and rural citizens.
Reactions Pour In From Across the Nation
Condolences have poured in from leaders across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Modi described Pawar’s passing as “a monumental loss to Maharashtra’s political fabric,” praising him as a man dedicated to the state’s development and progress. Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed shock, calling the incident “deeply saddening and tragic.”
Sharad Pawar, found at his Baramati residence surrounded by family and supporters, was visibly moved. The NCP patriarch said in a brief statement, “Ajit was not just my nephew but like my own son. He served Maharashtra selflessly, always putting people above politics. The void he leaves behind will be impossible to fill.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also expressed their grief, remembering Ajit Pawar’s long-lasting contributions to Maharashtra’s governance and social welfare.
Maharashtra in Mourning
With the government’s notification now in effect, all schools, government offices, and institutions across Maharashtra remained closed on Wednesday. National flags will be flown at half-mast for the next three days as a mark of respect. The Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that cultural and entertainment events scheduled during the mourning period will be postponed or cancelled.
In Baramati, residents have begun gathering at various parts of the city holding candles and photographs of Ajit Pawar. The sense of loss is palpable among the people he represented — he was known for his accessibility and compassion, particularly for farmers and small traders.
Legacy of a Fearless Leader
Ajit Pawar’s political journey reflected resilience, commitment, and deep understanding of Maharashtra’s socio-economic challenges. Despite political highs and lows, his dedication to the state’s development never wavered. He often emphasized the need for pragmatic politics focused on public welfare rather than personal gain.
From rural development to irrigation reforms, Pawar left behind a legacy of measurable impact. Under his leadership, Baramati transformed into one of the most prosperous constituencies in the state, setting benchmarks for agricultural innovation, education, and industrial growth.
As messages of condolence continue to pour in from across the nation, Maharashtra mourns a leader who was deeply woven into the fabric of its progress and politics. The next few days are expected to see an outpouring of collective grief as lakhs of people assemble in Baramati to bid farewell to “Ajit Dada” — a leader who stood tall through every storm and led with unwavering conviction.
