Ajit Pawar – Maharashtra Marks Former Deputy CM’s Birth Anniversary With Statewide Tributes
Ajit Pawar – Leaders, party workers and members of the Pawar family gathered across Maharashtra on Wednesday to honour the memory of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on the occasion of his first birth anniversary since his passing. Several commemorative events were organised by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), with Baramati remaining the focal point of the observances.
The day began with members of the Pawar family visiting locations closely associated with the late leader’s public life. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, accompanied by Parth Pawar, Jay Pawar, Rituja Patil and Vijaya Patil, travelled to Gojubavi village near Baramati Airport in Pune district. The family offered floral tributes at the memorial established near the site where Ajit Pawar’s chartered aircraft crashed earlier this year, remembering his contributions to the state and paying their respects in a solemn ceremony.
Family Pays Tribute at Memorial Sites
Before visiting the crash memorial, Sunetra Pawar also paid homage at Ajit Pawar’s memorial located at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati. The ceremonies reflected both personal remembrance and public recognition of the veteran politician, whose political career spanned several decades and left a significant mark on Maharashtra’s governance.
The memorial visit was attended by close family members, with floral offerings made in silence as supporters gathered nearby. The occasion drew attention from local residents and party workers who joined the family in honouring the former deputy chief minister.
NCP Holds Programmes Across Maharashtra
Apart from the events in Baramati, the Nationalist Congress Party organised tribute programmes in multiple districts across Maharashtra. Party leaders, workers and supporters assembled at different venues to remember Ajit Pawar’s contribution to public service and his long association with the party.
Many participants recalled his administrative experience and his role in state politics, while commemorative gatherings included floral tributes, remembrance meetings and community programmes dedicated to his legacy. The anniversary served as an opportunity for party members to reflect on his leadership and reaffirm their commitment to the organisation’s ideals.
Remembering the January 2026 Air Crash
Ajit Pawar lost his life on January 28, 2026, when the Learjet chartered to transport him from Mumbai to Baramati crashed while attempting to land near Baramati Airport. He had been travelling to participate in campaigning for the Zilla Parishad elections when the accident occurred.
The crash resulted in the deaths of all five people aboard the aircraft, including Ajit Pawar, both pilots and two staff members. The incident prompted widespread mourning across Maharashtra and led to tributes from political leaders representing different parties.
Investigation Into the Accident Continues
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Investigators are analysing technical and operational aspects of the accident to determine its cause.
Although speculation regarding possible sabotage emerged in the weeks following the incident, officials conducting the inquiry have not presented any evidence supporting those claims. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have indicated that conclusions will be based solely on verified findings once the inquiry is completed.
Wednesday’s commemorations highlighted the lasting impact of Ajit Pawar’s political career, with family members, party colleagues and supporters coming together to remember his service to Maharashtra while awaiting the outcome of the official investigation into the tragedy.