An Indian political leader, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, tragically lost his life in a plane crash near Baramati, India, this morning. The incident also claimed the lives of four others, including two pilots and security personnel. The Learjet 45 jet, operated by VSR, departed from Mumbai at 8:10 am and disappeared from radar at around 8:45 am.
Reports indicate that the aircraft crashed while attempting a second landing near Baramati airport, bursting into flames upon impact. Eyewitnesses observed the plane losing control just before landing, crashing about 100 feet short of the runway. Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly, but all five occupants were declared deceased shortly after their arrival.
Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was en route to attend public meetings ahead of local body elections when the tragic accident occurred. Images from the crash site depicted twisted wreckage, smoke, and ambulances transporting victims to nearby medical facilities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed shock and sorrow over Pawar’s untimely demise, lauding his dedication to grassroots connections and serving the underprivileged.
Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a respected leader known for his strong grassroots connections and tireless service to the people of Maharashtra. His understanding of governance and commitment to empowering the less fortunate were remarkable. His sudden passing is deeply distressing. My condolences to his family and numerous admirers. Om Shanti.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also mourned the loss, describing it as deeply painful and expressing personal sorrow. Shah highlighted Pawar’s three-decade-long dedication to the welfare of all sectors of society in Maharashtra, emphasizing their discussions on various issues related to the state’s well-being.
Shah extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Pawar family and assured support from the entire NDA during this time of grief. He concluded, “May the departed soul find peace at the divine feet of God.”
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