Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Tragedy Shocks India Today

On 28 January 2026, a devastating aviation accident claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, marking a deeply sorrowful moment in India’s political and public life. The chartered aircraft carrying Pawar and four others crashed during an attempted landing at Baramati Airport in Pune district, leaving no survivors and plunging Maharashtra and the entire country into grief. 

What Happened? The Incident at Baramati

The ill-fated flight was a Learjet 45XR (registration VT-SSK), chartered from Mumbai, carrying Ajit Pawar along with his personal security officer, an attendant, and two crew members. The jet was en route from Mumbai to Baramatiearly on Wednesday morning, intending to attend public meetings related to the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. 

At around 08:45 IST, the aircraft crash-landed while attempting to touch down at Baramati Airport, reportedly veering off the runway and bursting into flames upon impact. Eyewitnesses and emergency responders at the scene described thick smoke and scattered wreckage across the field near the runway. 

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and official updates, all five people on board were killed in the crash — including Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. 

Loss of a Senior Political Leader

Ajit Pawar, 66, was a prominent and influential figure in Maharashtra politics, serving as Deputy Chief Minister and leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction that he led. Over decades, he played a central role in the state’s governance and coalition politics, earning both respect and national recognition for his administrative experience. 

His sudden passing has triggered an outpouring of shock and condolences from all corners of India. National leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Pawar’s connection with the people and his long record of public service. 

National Reaction and Mourning

Following the crash, political leaders and citizens alike conveyed their grief:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the news as sad and shocking, offering condolences to the bereaved families. 

• Union Ministers and party leaders shared messages of deep sorrow and highlighted Pawar’s contributions to Maharashtra’s development. 

The Baramati community, long a political stronghold for Pawar, and the wider state of Maharashtra are now in mourning, with many gatherings canceled or postponed out of respect. 

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Questions

The DGCA and aviation authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. Early focus is on flight data, weather conditions, and the circumstances of the aircraft’s emergency landing attempt. 

Investigators will analyze all available evidence to determine why the Learjet lost control during landing — a critical phase of flight that accounts for a significant number of aviation accidents globally.

Legacy of Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar’s career was marked by longevity and influence in Maharashtra politics. Serving multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister and engaging in coalition governance, he was widely regarded as a seasoned administrator. His leadership touched many areas of state policy and regional development, and his passing leaves a significant void in Maharashtra’s political landscape. 

A Nation Reflects on Fragility of Life

Beyond the political ramifications, this tragedy is also a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of fate. In an instant, plans and responsibilities can be upended. Such events prompt reflection not only on safety and governance but also on human priorities, relationships, and the impermanent nature of existence.