Vasai-Virar strongman and Bahujan Vikas Aghadi leader Hitendra Thakur expressed deep sorrow over the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who lost his life in a devastating plane crash on Wednesday. The shocking incident has sent waves of grief across the state’s political landscape.In his condolence message, Thakur remembered Ajit Pawar as a leader with a large heart and exceptional foresight. He described him as a straightforward friend, a dependable pillar of support during crises, and a guiding force for many within and beyond politics.
“Ajit Dada’s leadership was marked by clarity of thought, courage in decision-making, and an unwavering commitment to public service. He will always remain in our memories,” Thakur said, offering his heartfelt tribute. Ajit Pawar was widely regarded as one of Maharashtra’s most influential leaders, known for his administrative grip, decisive governance, and strong connect with the grassroots. His sudden passing has left a deep void in the state’s political and public life.
The two pilots and Ajit's two security personnel also died in the crash. Visuals from the crash site showed wreckage scattered across the area, with flames and thick smoke billowing from the aircraft. Pawar was travelling in a privately operated chartered plane, which had four other passengers on board. Ajit Pawar was heading to Baramati to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad elections when the aircraft, a Learjet 45, which was chartered from Mumbai, crashed. Visibility at Baramati airport was low, and lacking a night-landing facility, the jet carrying Ajit Pawar crashed while attempting to land in dense fog with around 800 meters visibility. The bodies were unrecognisable after the crash and Pawar was later identified by his watch.