Maharashtra Deputy CM Pawar dies in plane crash
Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft skidded off the runway before bursting into flames.
KATHMANDU: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar died on Wednesday morning in a tragic plane crash at Baramati Airport.
The 66-year-old, popularly known as “Dada” in Maharashtra politics, was traveling from Mumbai to his hometown of Baramati when the chartered Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) aircraft he was on skidded off the runway while attempting to land at around 8:48 a.m., caught fire, and was completely destroyed.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), all five people on board—including Pawar, two pilots, and two security personnel—lost their lives.
The crash was so severe that there was no possibility of survival. Pawar’s personal secretary confirmed the tragic news to BBC Marathi.
Eyewitnesses reported thick smoke and scattered wreckage across the crash site.
Rescue teams, including fire and emergency medical personnel, were immediately deployed, but no survivors were found.
Pawar had been traveling to Baramati to attend four election-related events in his home district.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to receive updates on the incident.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, though preliminary reports suggest the aircraft lost control while landing.
Authorities are examining whether technical failure, pilot error, or other factors were involved. Further details about the crash are expected as the investigation continues.
