A plane crash has snuffed out the life of Maharashtra’s Deputy CM and NCP stalwart Ajit Pawar, triggering an unprecedented three-day official mourning across the state until January 30. All public offices shuttered, flags at half-mast—Maharashtra stands still in homage.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a longtime associate, ditched his schedule to fly to Baramati with Eknath Shinde. His voice breaking, Fadnavis told media: ‘Ajit Dada embodied the soil of Maharashtra—simple, hardworking, adored by all. This premature farewell is devastating.’
He called it a ‘personal catastrophe,’ reminiscing joint political odysseys and Pawar’s pivotal growth contributions. Comforting words flowed for the family and NCP faithful: ‘We’re with you in this sorrow.’ Post-Barhamati huddles with kin will seal protocols.
The PM and Home Minister, updated by Fadnavis, shared the profound sadness gripping the nation.
Fadnavis’s raw social media lament: ‘Dada’s gone in a crash that shatters the soul. My friend, Maharashtra’s son—irreplaceable. Heart heavy, departing for Baramati now. Mourning four other souls too.’
As the state pauses, this tragedy spotlights Pawar’s grassroots legacy amid swirling uncertainties for NCP and state governance. Leaders’ pilgrimage to Baramati marks a poignant chapter in Maharashtra’s story.