Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, right stands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, centre and during the swearing-in ceremony of the Maharashtra government held in Mumbai, India, Dec. 5, 2024.
A private plane crash in western India claimed five lives on Wednesday, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
The aircraft went down in an open field, leaving no survivors, aviation authorities confirmed.
The privately operated jet was flying from Mumbai to Baramati when it crash-landed mid-route.
Moments after impact, the plane burst into flames, witnesses said.
Flight Ends in Tragedy
The private plane crash occurred around 254 kilometers from Mumbai.
Television visuals showed thick smoke rising from the wreckage in a rural area.
Officials said the aircraft was a mid-size Learjet 45.
The cause of the private plane crash remains unknown.
Emergency teams rushed to the site.
However, all five people on board were declared dead.
Who Was On Board
Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was traveling to his home city Baramati.
He was heading there to campaign in a local election.
Two members of Pawar’s personal staff were also on the flight.
The remaining victims were the pilot and co-pilot.
India’s aviation regulator confirmed the passenger details in a preliminary statement.
The authority said a full investigation into the private plane crash has begun.
Political Shock Across Maharashtra
The private plane crash sent shockwaves across Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Ajit Pawar was one of the most influential leaders in the state.
He served as the deputy chief minister, the second-highest elected office in Maharashtra.
Pawar was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling coalition in the state.
Known for his strong rural base, Pawar commanded influence in Maharashtra’s sugar belt.
He was widely recognized for mobilizing voters in farming communities.
Condolences From National Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the private plane crash.
He described Pawar as a committed and capable public servant.
Modi praised Pawar’s grasp of administration and concern for the underprivileged.
He called the loss shocking and deeply saddening.
Condolence messages poured in from political leaders across parties.
Supporters gathered in Baramati as news of the tragedy spread.
Investigation Underway
Aviation officials have launched a detailed probe into the private plane crash.
Investigators will examine technical data, flight records, and weather conditions.
Authorities said it was too early to determine mechanical failure or pilot error.
The wreckage has been secured for forensic analysis.
Further updates are expected once the investigation progresses.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over private aircraft safety in India.
The private plane crash marks one of the most tragic political losses in recent years.
Maharashtra now mourns a leader whose influence shaped its modern politics.
