ibn sultan
Maharashtra :In a tragic accident that has shocked Maharashtra and Indian politics, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed today when the private plane he was traveling in crash-landed near Baramati Airport in Pune district. Four others on board also died in the incident, authorities confirmed.
What Happened
The aircraft — a Learjet 45 operated by VSR Ventures — was flying from Mumbai to Baramati for Pawar’s official engagements and local election commitments. As the jet made its second approach to Baramati Airport this morning, it went out of control and crashed near the threshold of Runway 11, bursting into flames upon impact.
Eyewitnesses described the plane as engulfed in fire followed by multiple explosions, making any rescue effort impossible.
Victims
All five people aboard the chartered aircraft were killed:
Ajit Pawar — Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra
Two pilots
Two staff/security personnel
Officials have confirmed there were no survivors.
Flight Details
The Learjet, registered VT-SSK, took off from Mumbai early in the morning. After what appeared to be difficulties during the first landing attempt, it circled and tried a second approach when the crash occurred. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to lead the official investigation into the cause of the accident.
Reactions and Aftermath
The crash has triggered widespread grief among political leaders, citizens, and officials across India. Maharashtra has announced a period of mourning following Pawar’s death. Statements from both state and national leaders emphasized the loss of a significant public figure and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
Who Was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was a senior political figure in Maharashtra and served as its Deputy Chief Minister. A veteran leader with decades of experience in state politics, he was also a prominent member of the Nationalist Congress Party and held considerable influence in regional and cooperative sectors.
