Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Killed in Plane Crash Near Baramati

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died on Wednesday, January 28, after the aircraft he was travelling in crashed while attempting to land at Baramati in the state, a close aide confirmed.

According to preliminary reports, the plane was carrying six passengers, including the Nationalist Congress Party leader, his security personnel, and the pilots. Officials said six people were on board at the time of the crash.

Pawar was travelling to Baramati to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad elections when the incident occurred.

Baramati airport manager Shivaji Taware told Hindustan Times that the aircraft, identified as VT-SSK, veered off the runway while attempting to land and exploded after crashing. He said the aircraft was a Learjet 45 chartered from Mumbai.

The Baramati airport, which was earlier operated by a private firm, was recently handed over to the Maharashtra Airport Development Company.

Authorities said investigations are underway, and further details on the cause of the crash and casualties are awaited.