Ajit Pawar plane crashed in Maharashtra, deputy chief minister killed

The Indian state of Maharashtra has declared three days of mourning after ajit pawar plane crashed on Wednesday, killing the state’s deputy chief minister and all others on board.

Pawar, a veteran politician and one of Maharashtra’s most influential leaders, was travelling to campaign in his home constituency when the aircraft made a failed landing attempt and burst into flames on impact. Authorities confirmed there were no survivors.

Details of the crash

According to officials, ajit pawar plane crashed as it attempted to land, catching fire as it hit the ground. Two members of Pawar’s staff and two crew members were also on board the flight. All five people died in the incident.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.

State mourning and funeral

Following news that ajit pawar plane crashed, the Maharashtra government announced three days of official mourning. Thousands of supporters gathered in Pawar’s home region of Baramati on Thursday for his funeral.

He was cremated with full state honours, with senior leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah, expected to attend.

Political career and legacy

Over a long political career, Pawar served as Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister six times under different coalition governments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, describing him as a “leader of the people” who was widely respected for his hard work and service to the state.

Born into a prominent political family, Pawar joined the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 1980, founded by his uncle Sharad Pawar. He was long seen as his uncle’s political heir, though their differing styles led to tensions.

Impact on Maharashtra politics

The death of Pawar after ajit pawar plane crashed is expected to create a major power vacuum in Maharashtra politics. In 2023, he led a dramatic split in the NCP by forming a faction that joined the BJP-led alliance, reshaping the state’s political landscape.

After the BJP-led alliance won the 2024 state elections, Pawar was again named deputy chief minister. More recently, talks had begun on reuniting the rival NCP factions. His death now raises fresh questions about succession and the future of the party.

The tragedy in which ajit pawar plane crashed has plunged Maharashtra into mourning and uncertainty. As the state bids farewell to a powerful political figure, attention now turns to the investigation into the crash and the wider political consequences of his sudden death.