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Ajit Pawar, Former Maharashtra Deputy CM, Dies in Plane Crash

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. r-maharashtra-deputy-cm-dies-in-plane-crash.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 1:28 GMT by Goodreturns
      Locales: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi, INDIA

Mumbai, Maharashtra - January 28th, 2026 - Maharashtra is reeling from the shock and grief following the death of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash earlier today. The incident has brought to a sudden and tragic end the career of a politician who, for decades, played a pivotal role in the state's political landscape. This article explores Pawar's life, his often-controversial political trajectory, and examines the details surrounding his significant wealth.

Pawar's entry into politics began with the Indian National Congress, but he became inextricably linked with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following its formation in 1999. Alongside his uncle and political mentor, Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar helped build the NCP into a formidable force in Maharashtra. He steadily rose through the ranks, serving in key ministerial positions, notably as the Minister of Agriculture, a portfolio he held with distinction for several terms, advocating for farmer welfare and modernizing agricultural practices.

Over the years, Pawar garnered a reputation as a shrewd political operator - a skilled negotiator and a powerful administrator. He held the post of Deputy Chief Minister on multiple occasions, demonstrating his ability to navigate the complex world of coalition politics. His effectiveness, however, was often shadowed by accusations of strong-arm tactics and allegations of impropriety, issues that frequently surfaced in the media and political discourse.

The most dramatic turn in Pawar's career came in 2023. In a move that stunned the state's political establishment, Ajit Pawar, along with a faction of NCP leaders, defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This split in the NCP sent shockwaves through Maharashtra, reshaping the political alignment and triggering intense debate about the future of regional parties. The decision was presented as a desire to bring stability and development to the state, aligning with the national ruling party's agenda. However, critics viewed it as a calculated power grab, fueled by ambition and a desire to secure a more advantageous position within the state government.

A Substantial Fortune

Pawar's financial holdings have long been a subject of public scrutiny. Estimates of his net worth consistently placed it in the INR200-INR300 crore range (approximately $24 - $36 million USD). This wealth was reportedly derived from a diverse portfolio encompassing agricultural land, a network of lucrative sugar factories, distilleries, and other related business ventures. He was also known to have substantial investments in the burgeoning real estate market, particularly in and around Pune and Mumbai. While Pawar always maintained that his wealth was legitimately earned through business acumen and entrepreneurial endeavors, opposition parties consistently called for a thorough investigation into the source of his funds.

Following the 2023 split, increased media attention focused on Pawar's business dealings and potential conflicts of interest, adding to the controversy surrounding his political decisions. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted several raids and investigations related to alleged financial irregularities, although no conclusive evidence of wrongdoing was ever publicly presented.

The Crash & Its Aftermath The details of the plane crash remain under investigation. Reports indicate the aircraft, a private jet, went down shortly after takeoff from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Authorities have launched a full-scale inquiry, involving the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other relevant agencies, to determine the cause of the accident. Initial reports suggest adverse weather conditions may have played a role, but investigators are exploring all possible angles, including mechanical failure and human error.

The outpouring of grief has been significant, with condolences pouring in from political leaders across party lines. Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow, acknowledging Pawar's long service to the state. Sharad Pawar, visibly shaken, issued a statement remembering his nephew as a dedicated politician and a committed public servant. The Maharashtra government has declared a state of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Ajit Pawar's death marks the end of an era in Maharashtra politics. His legacy will be debated for years to come - a complex tapestry woven with ambition, achievement, and controversy. The investigations into the crash will undoubtedly shed more light on the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise, but the questions surrounding his life and career will linger long after the dust settles.