MUMBAI, 28 January 2026: On the morning of January 28, 2026, Maharashtra and the nation were plunged into mourning with the sudden death of Shri Ajit Anantrao Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of India’s western state of Maharashtra, whose chartered aircraft crashed while attempting to land near Baramati Airport in Pune district.

Aboard the Learjet 45 were Pawar and four others — including members of his staff and the flight crew. None survived the crash, with aviation authorities confirming no one on board was found alive following the impact and ensuing fire.

Pawar, aged 66, was a seasoned leader known for his long tenure in Maharashtra politics and his influence in rural constituencies across the state. He served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister and was widely recognised for his administrative acumen and grassroots ties.

The tragedy occurred as Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati to participate in local election campaigning when the aircraft reportedly experienced difficulties during its approach to the airstrip. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau have launched a formal probe into the circumstances of the crash.

Across political lines, leaders expressed shock and sadness at the news of his passing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Pawar as “a leader of the people,” highlighting his commitment to public service, while other national figures extended condolences and called for a thorough investigation.

The Government of Maharashtra declared a three-day period of official mourning, with public offices and schools closed as the state paid tribute to a leader who played a central role in its governance and development.

Ajit Pawar is survived by his immediate family. His death marks a significant loss in Maharashtra’s political landscape and has triggered reflections across the country on his decades-long career in public life.