Ajay Devgn: Nation Mourns as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Dies in Plane Crash
Ajay Devgn : expressed deep grief on Wednesday following the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who was among six people killed in a plane crash near Baramati. The incident has sent shockwaves across political and public circles, coming at a sensitive time amid local elections in the state.
Ajay Devgn Shares Condolences Publicly
Soon after news of the tragedy emerged, Ajay Devgn took to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to share his reaction. In a brief but emotional message, the actor said he was “shocked and saddened” by the loss, offering condolences to Pawar’s family and to all those affected by what he described as an immense tragedy. His message was one of many pouring in from across the country as public figures reacted to the news.
Details of the Fatal Aircraft Accident
According to official confirmation from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, all six people on board the aircraft lost their lives. The crash occurred during the landing phase near Baramati at around 9 a.m., roughly an hour after the plane had departed from Mumbai. Aviation authorities stated that the aircraft lost control while approaching the landing zone, leading to the fatal impact.
Purpose of Ajit Pawar’s Travel
At the time of the incident, Ajit Pawar, who also served as chief of the Nationalist Congress Party, was travelling to Baramati to attend a public meeting. His visit was part of ongoing engagements linked to elections for Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis. The timing of the crash has heightened the sense of loss, as Pawar remained an active figure in the state’s political landscape.
Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services were mobilised swiftly after the crash was reported. Senior security officials and rescue teams reached the site within a short time to manage the situation and secure the area. Despite rapid deployment, authorities confirmed that there were no survivors. Local residents were among the first to reach the scene after witnessing the aircraft go down, assisting emergency responders where possible.
Medical Examination and Identification Process
Three of the recovered bodies were taken to Baramati Medical College for post-mortem examination, while procedures to identify all victims are ongoing. The Superintendent of Police in Pune district stated that forensic and administrative protocols were being followed carefully to ensure accurate identification before the remains are handed over to families. Officials have urged patience as formalities continue.
Investigation by Aviation Authorities
A dedicated team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has arrived at the crash site to begin a detailed investigation. Officials are examining flight data, weather conditions, and technical aspects of the aircraft to determine the cause of the accident. Authorities have said that further information will be shared once preliminary findings are available.
Past Aviation Incidents Raise Safety Questions
The crash has also revived concerns over aviation safety involving political travel in the region. In October 2024, a helicopter scheduled to pick up a senior party colleague of Pawar crashed in Pune. There have also been earlier reports of emergency landings in the area, often attributed to adverse weather conditions. While no direct link has been established, these incidents have drawn renewed attention to safety measures and risk assessments.
Statewide Mourning and Awaited Updates
As Maharashtra mourns the loss of a senior leader, tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum and civil society. The state government is expected to announce further details regarding official ceremonies and next steps once investigations progress. Authorities have indicated that more updates will be released as verified information becomes available.