Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Plane Crash Near Baramati

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died Wednesday morning when the chartered aircraft carrying them crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport in Pune district, according to an annoucment by the state government. As per a report by Reuters, the tragic accident occurred as the plane was approaching for landing, with all on board perishing in the crash and ensuing fire. 

An occurrence report issued by aviation authorities identified the aircraft as a Learjet 45 operated by VSR Aviation, on a flight from Mumbai to Baramati. As per a report by The Times of India, the jet crashed while making an emergency landing at about 08:45 IST, killing Pawar and four others on board, including two crew members and two of his aides. 

As per a report by the Economic Times, villagers who rushed toward the wreckage said the aircraft burst into flames almost immediately after contact with the ground, hampering rescue efforts. 

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said in an initial assessment that “no person has survived” the crash. 
Pawar was travelling to Baramati to participate in Zilla Parishad election events. As per reports, he had left Mumbai early Wednesday to attend a public rally and meetings, part of a broader campaign ahead of key local body elections in Maharashtra. 

At 66, Pawar was one of Maharashtra’s most seasoned political figures, having served as Deputy Chief Minister multiple times. He was nephew of Sharad Pawar. In July 2023, Ajit Pawar rebelled against Sharad Pawar, joined the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena government, and took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.