Lost courageous & accomplished leader
Ankushrao Kadam (Chancellor, MGM University): The accidental death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is an extremely sad and shocking event for all of us. We have lost a courageous, accomplished, and noble leader. His passing has created a great void in Maharashtra's public life. On behalf of the MGM family, we offer our heartfelt condolences.
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Today, I have become an orphan
MLC Satish Chavan: I still cannot believe that the deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar, is no longer with us. We, and even leaders from all other parties, were always amazed by Ajit Pawar, who worked tirelessly for seventeen to eighteen hours every day, had an excellent understanding of the State's problems, and maintained strict control over the administration.
It is because of him that an ordinary worker like me could become an MLC not once, but three times.
In fact, I had never even thought of contesting the Graduate Constituency election. In 2008, the Marathwada Graduate Constituency election was announced.
Because of the death of Vasantrao Kale, who represented this constituency, Ajit Pawar gave the candidature to an ordinary worker like me. As a public representative, I have been able to observe his working style very closely for the past 18 years.
This man, who included everyone in the development process regardless of their party affiliation, was a generous and trustworthy person who always kept his promises.
I have truly lost my guide and support. Today, I have become an orphan because of his death. Today is a black day for me.
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State lost true leader
Vivek Bhonsle (Executive Council member, MSPM) Respectful authority, frankness, dynamic leadership, and a firm grip on administration were his special qualities. He was popular from villages to city streets. With his understanding of every issue, quick decision-making ability, and foresight, he provided strong leadership to Maharashtra.
He was a dear friend of our family. My brother Sachit was very close to him in the sports (Kabaddi) organisation while my other brother Tanmay also benefited from his guidance. He also provided valuable assistance to my son Nakul regarding the beer policy. Sunetra Pawar (Dada's wife) was my sister's classmate – this family bond will always be remembered. We met him just a month ago. He immediately called the District Guardian Minister of Latur and gave clear instructions to sanction Rs 1 crore rupees from the DPDC for my father's memorial – this was a perfect example of his decisiveness and affection – something we will never forget. The State has lost a very capable, diligent, and people-connected leader. This loss is irreparable.
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leader who understood the problems of the employees
Dr Kailas Pathrikar (Working President, Maharashtra State University Non-Teaching Employees Federation): I met Ajit Pawar many times to discuss the issues of university employees in the State. He always kept his word. Our friend, the late Ulhas Udhan, used to arrange the meetings. Every time, he would ask us to come to the Ministry with all the necessary documents. Ajit Pawar resolved many issues, including the salary fixation of the employees. The untimely passing of such a leader, who was true to his word, is extremely painful.