January 29, 2026
NEW DELHI – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, one of the state’s most influential and seasoned political leaders, died in a tragic plane crash on Wednesday morning while landing at Baramati airport.
His sudden demise has plunged Maharashtra into deep mourning, marking the end of a significant political era.
Ajit Pawar holds the record of serving as Deputy Chief Minister six times, the highest in Maharashtra’s history. Known for his discipline and administrative efficiency, he was often described as the minister who reaches Mantralaya by 7 a.m. His death is being widely mourned as the loss of a strong administrator and a mass leader deeply connected to the grassroots.
Details of the Accident
According to preliminary information, Ajit Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati in a private aircraft for district council election campaigning. At around 9:15 a.m., while landing at Baramati airport, the aircraft reportedly developed a technical malfunction, caught fire, and crashed on the runway.
Local administration, fire brigade teams, and emergency services rushed to the spot immediately. However, due to the intensity of the fire and multiple explosions, rescue efforts proved unsuccessful.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved in the accident was a Learjet 45, operated by VSR Aviation, with registration number VT-SSK. The jet is commonly used for VVIP travel and is designed to carry 8–9 passengers. Known for its speed and agility, the Learjet 45 can fly at approximately 860 kmph and is capable of landing on short runways, making it suitable for smaller airports like Baramati.
In aviation circles, the Learjet 45 is often referred to as the “Lamborghini of business jets” due to its advanced engine performance and aerodynamic design.
An eyewitness near Baramati airport said, the aircraft appeared to skid while landing. Moments later, there was a massive explosion and the plane was engulfed in flames. We rushed towards the site, but the fire was uncontrollable. There were several blasts. It was horrifying and impossible to save anyone.
Family Rushes to Baramati
Soon after news of the crash broke, Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar, and Parth Pawar immediately left for Baramati. Supriya Sule and Sunetra Pawar were in Delhi attending the Budget Session of Parliament and rushed back without delay.
Ajit Pawar is survived by his wife Sunetra Pawar and sons Parth and Jai Pawar.
Born on July 22, 1959, in Deolali Pravara in Ahmednagar district, Ajit Pawar was widely known as “Dada” in political circles. He entered public life in 1982 through the cooperative sector. In 1991, he was elected as a Member of Parliament from Baramati but resigned to pave the way for his uncle Sharad Pawar.
From 1991 onward, he continuously represented the Baramati Assembly constituency. Over the years, he handled crucial portfolios such as Finance, Water Resources, Planning, and Energy, earning a reputation for firm decision-making and administrative control.
With Ajit Pawar’s passing, Maharashtra has lost a decisive leader, an efficient administrator, and a politician who left a lasting imprint on the state’s governance and political culture.