Political Leaders Across Party Lines Pay Tribute To Ajit Pawar After Tragic Plane Crash

Last Updated:January 28, 2026, 10:41 IST

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar described the 66-year-old leader's death as "a great loss to public life and to Maharashtra politics."

Ajit Pawar died along with four others, including pilots and security personnel, when their small aircraft crashed,

Political leaders from across India expressed shock and grief over the sudden death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash Wednesday morning, with tributes pouring in from both allies and rivals alike.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was “deeply shocked and pained" to learn about Ajit Pawar’s untimely demise. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Throughout his long public life, he remained committed to the development and prosperity of Maharashtra. He was known for his compassion for the people and his unwavering dedication to public service. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers, and admirers."

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar described the 66-year-old leader’s death as “a great loss to public life and to Maharashtra politics."

“Shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Maharashtra Deputy CM Shri Ajit Pawar in a tragic plane crash. His sudden demise is a great loss to public life and to Maharashtra politics, where he served with experience and resolve," Shivakumar wrote, adding, “My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters, and prayers for strength in this hour of grief. Om Shanti."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed being “deeply shocked and stunned" by the news, noting that she felt “a deep sense of loss."

“The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and his co-passengers have died in a disastrous plane crash at Baramati today morning, and I am feeling a deep sense of loss," Mamata Banerjee wrote, adding, “My condolences to his family including his uncle Sharad Pawar ji, and late Ajitji’s all friends and followers. The incident needs proper investigation."

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

The veteran politician, who had served as Deputy Chief Minister multiple times, was the nephew of NCP founder Sharad Pawar and cousin of Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule.

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