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Tragic Loss Of A Political Heavyweight

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was killed along with four others when their chartered Learjet 45 crashed during a landing attempt at Baramati Airport in Pune district on January 28, 2026.

The private jet, registered VT-SSK and operated by VSR Aviation, had departed from Mumbai earlier that morning.

Pawar was traveling to his political stronghold, Baramati, for election-related rallies ahead of the upcoming Zilla Parishad polls.

Details Of The Crash

According to flight data and initial reports, the aircraft was on its second approach to runway 11 when it lost control, veered off the runway, and erupted in flames around 9:12 AM IST.

Witnesses described a loud explosion as the plane crashed in an open field near the airport.

All five onboard perished: Ajit Pawar, two pilots (including Captain Shambhavi Pathak), a personal security officer, and an attendant.

Emergency teams responded swiftly, but no survivors were found.

Notably, the same aircraft had been involved in a runway excursion incident during heavy rain in Mumbai in 2023, prompting renewed scrutiny of its maintenance and operational history.

Political Repercussions

Ajit Pawar’s sudden death leaves a significant void in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

Since splitting from his uncle, Sharad Pawar, in 2023, he has wielded significant influence over cooperative institutions.

He has served as Deputy CM in multiple governments.

The incident in Baramati, the Pawar family’s traditional stronghold, adds a profound emotional layer.

Family members, including Supriya Sule and Sharad Pawar, rushed to the site from Delhi.

In response, the Maharashtra government announced three days of state mourning, with national flags at half-mast on government buildings.

Nationwide Tributes

Leaders across the political spectrum expressed shock and grief.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the loss “very shocking and saddening,” praising Pawar’s contributions to state development.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others joined in condolences, highlighting his administrative expertise.

Investigation Launched

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has deployed a team to examine potential causes, including technical faults, pilot error, or weather-related issues, despite reports of clear conditions.

Early focus includes the second landing attempt and the aircraft’s prior safety record.

This tragedy highlights persistent concerns over the safety of small private jets used for VIP travel in India.

Further details are expected as the probe advances.