NEW DELHI / BARAMATI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in mourning on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, following the tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. Pawar, along with five others, was killed when their chartered Learjet 45 crashed during a landing attempt at Baramati Airport.
In a poignant post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister described the incident as “heartrending” and a significant loss to the political landscape of India.
1. PM Modi’s Tribute: “A Leader of the People”
- The Message: PM Modi wrote, “Saddened by the tragic air crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones in the crash. Praying for strength and courage for the bereaved families in this moment of profound grief.”
- High-Level Briefing: Earlier in the morning, the Prime Minister spoke directly with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to receive a full briefing on the crash and the status of rescue operations.
- National Impact: Union Home Minister Amit Shah also contacted Fadnavis, emphasizing that the central government stands ready to provide any necessary assistance for the investigation and the aftermath.
2. Political Figures in Shock
The news has triggered an outpouring of grief across party lines, momentarily halting the political friction of the Zilla Parishad poll season.
- The Pawar Family: Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule, along with Sunetra Pawar and Parth Pawar, immediately departed for Baramati upon hearing the news.
- State Leaders: CM Devendra Fadnavis described the loss as “irreparable,” stating that Pawar was a dedicated administrator who worked tirelessly for the state.
- Opposition Voices: Leaders from across the spectrum, including the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), expressed shock, noting that despite political differences, Ajit Pawar’s commitment to his work was unquestionable.
3. The Victims: Final Casualty Report
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and local police have confirmed there were no survivors. The bodies were recovered from the charred wreckage and taken to a local hospital in Baramati.
| Occupant | Role | Status |
| Ajit Pawar | Deputy CM & NCP Chief | Deceased |
| Security Personnel | PSO & Attendant (2) | Deceased |
| Flight Crew | Pilot-in-Command & First Officer (2) | Deceased |
| Total Casualties | 5 – 6 Individuals | Confirmed Dead |
4. Final Rites in Baramati
Pawar’s brother, Shriniwas Pawar, confirmed that the family has decided to perform the final rites in Baramati, the leader’s home turf and lifelong political bastion.
- State Funeral: The Maharashtra government is expected to accord a full state funeral to the departed leader.
- Security Sweep: Police have secured the Baramati airfield as thousands of supporters are expected to gather to pay their final respects.