Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP – AP), Ajit Pawar, passed away in a tragic plane crash on January 28, 2026, in his home constituency of Baramati. At the age of 66, He was en route to conduct public meetings in anticipation of the forthcoming Zilla Parishad elections. The accident involved a chartered Bombardier Learjet 45, which was being operated by VSR Aviation. The aircraft departed from Mumbai at 8:10 AM, but unfortunately crashed near the runway of Baramati airport at approximately 8:45 AM, resulting in a fiery explosion upon impact. This incident marks a significant loss for the political landscape of Maharashtra and has raised concerns regarding aviation safety and regulations, alongside an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum.
All five people were killed in the crash, among them Pawar's Personal Security Officer Vidip Jadhav; flight attendant Pinky Mali; and the two pilots, Sumit Kapur and Shambhavi Pathak. Preliminary assessments from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and statements from Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu indicate that limited visibility was a significant factor of the accident. In light of these events, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has successfully recovered the black box and initiated a forensic investigation to find precise cause of the crash.
Ajit Pawar's unexpected death has created a significant leadership and succession crisis within the NCP, specifically within the Ajit Pawar faction. Political analysts speculate that his wife, Sunetra Pawar, who is a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, or his son, Parth Pawar, could emerge as potential continuity figures for the party. However, both are noted to have limited experience in legislative affairs, raising questions about their ability to lead effectively. In the meantime, senior party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare are anticipated to take charge of the party's parliamentary duties and organizational management. This event has also rekindled discussions regarding a potential merger or renewed alignment with the NCP (SP), particularly in light of their recent cooperative strategies in local civic elections.
This tragedy has significant repercussions for the political environment in Maharashtra, particularly affecting the ruling Mahayuti alliance where Ajit Pawar was seen as a central strategist and influential figure. In response, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared a three-day period of state mourning. Political analysts are speculating that this event may lead several MLAs associated with NCP (AP) to reevaluate their political loyalties, which could result in shifts in allegiance following the mourning period.
Ajit Pawar’s last rites will take place on January 29, 2026, in Baramati, honoring him with full state honors. The ceremony is anticipated to be attended by prominent national and state leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In the wake of his passing, Maharashtra is in mourning as it reflects on the legacy of one of its most significant leader. This event has sparked discussions regarding the future trajectory of his political party, the potential implications for the stability of the ruling alliance, and the broader shifts in power dynamics within the state.
