Ajit Pawar Passes Away: Riteish Deshmukh 'Deeply Shocked and Heartbroken' by Maharashtra Deputy CM’s Demise in Plane Crash

Maharashtra's prominent political personality and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar passed away in a tragic plane crash incident in Baramati. This incident occurred on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, while flying from Mumbai to Baramati. In this incident five others on board, including the pilots and Pawar’s security personnel, also lost their lives. Late CM Vilasrao Deshmukh's son, actor Riteish Deshmukh expressed grief on the demise of Ajit Pawar.

Riteish Deshmukh, posted on X, "Deeply shocked and terribly heartbroken to learn that we have lost Ajit Dada in a tragic accident. One of Maharashtra’s most dynamic leaders, he had zero tolerance for non-performance and constantly pushed and inspired those around him to excel. He never minced his words, his wit was unmatched, and he was deeply loved across the state."

"His untimely demise leaves behind a huge loss and an irreplaceable void. I have had the pleasure of interacting with him numerous times, will always remember for the kindness he showered upon me. My deepest condolences to the Pawar family, his loved ones, and millions of supporters," He concluded. 

Deeply shocked and terribly heartbroken to learn that we have lost Ajit Dada in a tragic accident. One of Maharashtra’s most dynamic leaders, he had zero tolerance for non-performance and constantly pushed and inspired those around him to excel. He never minced his words, his wit… pic.twitter.com/nGQ3M1xf0Z

— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) January 28, 2026

About Ajit Pawar's plane crash in Baramati

According to report  the small aircraft took off from Mumbai at around 8 am and crashed near Baramati airport during a landing attempt roughly 45 minutes later, according to initial reports. Ajit Pawar was scheduled to attend four important public meetings in Baramati ahead of the upcoming local body polls. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Pawar's untimely death as "shocking and saddening". "Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra. His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti," he said on X.

Also Read: Ajit Pawar Passes Away: ‘Plane Crash Incident Must Definitely Be Investigated,’ Says Eknath Shinde

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is learnt to have left for Pune after getting information about the crash.