Initial Shock, Grief
The news of Ajit Pawar's untimely death in a plane crash sent shockwaves throughout Maharashtra and beyond. Initial reports indicated the incident occurred
during an attempt to land the aircraft in Baramati. Immediately, condolences poured in from various political figures, including Chief Ministers, Union Ministers, and leaders across party lines. The loss was described as irreparable, a great blow to public life and Maharashtra's political scene. Leaders expressed their deep sadness and extended heartfelt sympathies to the Pawar family, acknowledging Ajit Pawar's significant contributions to the state.
Crash Details Emerge
As the initial shock subsided, details about the crash began to emerge. The aircraft, a business jet, was reportedly attempting a second approach to Baramati Airport when it crashed. The Aviation Minister confirmed that the DGCA and AAIB were alerted and an investigation launched. Eyewitness accounts described the plane's final moments, with a video showing the aircraft tilting just before impact. The crash site was quickly secured, and teams began the process of identifying the victims and gathering evidence. The recovery of the black box was a crucial step in understanding the cause of the accident.
Political Reactions, Tributes
The political response was immediate and widespread, with leaders from across the political spectrum expressing their grief. Many remembered Ajit Pawar as an able administrator and a dedicated leader. Tributes highlighted his commitment to Maharashtra and his effectiveness in governance. Leaders like Pramod Sawant, Samrat Choudhary, Manish Tewari, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Omar Abdullah conveyed their condolences, recognizing his significant role in Maharashtra's politics. Union Ministers, including Amit Shah, also arrived in Baramati to pay their respects. The announcement of state mourning reflected the gravity of the loss.
Investigation Underway
An Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) team commenced its work to determine the cause of the crash. The investigation began with a visit to the VRS Ventures office, the aircraft's owner, to gather information and interrogate personnel. The Civil Aviation Minister assured a thorough, transparent, and time-bound inquiry into the incident. The team would analyze the black box data, examine the aircraft wreckage, and interview witnesses to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Initial reports suggested poor visibility at the time of the crash.
Pawar's Legacy
Ajit Pawar was remembered for his dedication to his work and his ability to get things done. He was often described as a leader who never let a file get stuck and brought a culture of accountability. His contributions to public life and Maharashtra's political life were widely acknowledged. His focus on various initiatives, as highlighted in his final hours, demonstrated his ongoing commitment to the state's progress. The outpouring of support from the public, party workers, and supporters showed the impact he had on the people he served.
Funeral and Mourning
The funeral proceedings were marked by an overwhelming outpouring of grief and respect. Lakhs of people gathered in Baramati to pay their last respects. The mortal remains were carried to the Vidya Pratishthan Ground, where the final rites were conducted with full state honors. The procession route was changed due to the massive crowd. Senior leaders, including Sharad Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, were present to bid farewell. The state government announced three days of mourning, reflecting the profound sorrow over the loss of a prominent leader.
