Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tragically died in a plane crash near Baramati on January 27, 2026, sending shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. The incident occurred while he was traveling from Mumbai, marking a devastating blow to the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
Crash Details
The chartered aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar crashed Wednesday morning in his hometown of Baramati, his political stronghold. Emergency responders confirmed no survivors, with initial reports ruling out conspiracy as per Sharad Pawar’s statement. Visuals from the site showed wreckage amid ongoing local body election tensions.
Political Career Highlights
Ajit Pawar, nephew of NCP founder Sharad Pawar, served six terms as Deputy CM, the longest in Maharashtra history, handling key portfolios like finance, irrigation, and planning. Elected MLA from Baramati eight times since 1995 and briefly an MP in 1991, he built his base in cooperatives, sugar factories, and infrastructure, transforming Baramati into a development model. In 2023, he split the NCP, securing the party name and symbol for his faction with 41 MLAs, allying with BJP-Shiv Sena for stability.
NCP Split and Recent Moves
The 2023 schism stemmed from Ajit Pawar’s push for progress amid Sharad Pawar’s age concerns, leading to his Mahayuti join amid family strains. Despite rivalry, recent civic polls saw alliances, like in Pimpri-Chinchwad, hinting at reconciliation. His 41 MLAs were vital for the coalition’s edge against opposition and internal frictions.
Family and Legacy
Survived by wife Sunetra Pawar (Rajya Sabha MP), sons Jay and Parth, Ajit shared strong family ties, even with Supriya Sule calling him “Dada” beyond politics. Eyes now turn to Sunetra potentially leading his faction amid leadership vacuum. Known as Maharashtra’s “Dada,” his irrigation projects and economic planning endure.
State Response
CM Devendra Fadnavis canceled events, with him and Eknath Shinde heading to Baramati; a three-day mourning period includes state holiday today and half-mast flags. Funeral rites with full honors set for January 29 after family consultation. This loss challenges BJP to retain Ajit faction loyalty amid polls.
