'At Loss For Words': Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Heads To Baramati After Ajit Pawar's Death

Last Updated:January 28, 2026, 12:08 IST

The Chief Minister confirmed that both he and Eknath Shinde were heading to Baramati, where the crash occurred near the airport.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and deputy CM Ajit Pawar.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said he was “at a loss for words" following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash this morning, announcing that he and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were traveling to Baramati as the state government grapples with the shocking tragedy.

“I am at a loss for words. We all stand with the family and the party. Once the family reaches Baramati, we will discuss and decide on the next steps," Fadnavis said, his voice reflecting the gravity of the situation.

The Chief Minister confirmed that both he and Eknath Shinde were heading to Baramati, where the crash occurred near the airport.

“Eknath Shinde ji and I are heading to Baramati. We have also informed the Prime Minister and Home Minister about the crash. We are all in shock," Fadnavis added.

Ajit Pawar, 66, died along with four others including pilots and security personnel when their small aircraft crashed during a landing attempt around 8:45 am. The plane had taken off from Mumbai approximately 45 minutes earlier. The NCP chief was traveling to attend public meetings ahead of local body polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier called Fadnavis to inquire about the incident. PM Modi condoled Pawar’s death, describing him as a leader deeply connected to the grassroots.

“Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra," PM Modi said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), adding, “His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti."

News india 'At Loss For Words': Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Heads To Baramati After Ajit Pawar's Death

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