Ajit Pawar’s Death Confirmed: The End of an Era for Maharashtra’s Longest-Serving Deputy CM

The Ajit Pawar story: Political journey of Maharashtra's longest-serving deputy CM

The political landscape of Maharashtra is reeling from a devastating blow. On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, news broke that Ajit Pawar, the state’s most powerful and longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister, had tragically lost his life in a private plane crash during landing at Baramati airstrip [[1]]. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has confirmed the fatalities, marking the end of an era defined by his unparalleled influence and administrative control [[2]].

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Confirmed Tragedy: Details of the Plane Crash

Initial reports were met with a wave of shock and disbelief, as official confirmation was slow to emerge. However, multiple credible sources, including the DGCA, have now verified that the charter aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar crashed, claiming the lives of all on board [[5]]. The incident occurred in his home constituency of Baramati, a region he had dominated politically for over three decades. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the scene, but there was no hope for survivors [[8]].

Ajit Pawar Death and a Legacy Forged in Baramati

The Ajit Pawar death is not just the loss of a senior politician; it is the fall of a colossus who shaped modern Maharashtra politics. His story began not in the legislative assembly, but in the cooperative sector—a traditional power base in the state. In 1982, he was elected to the board of a cooperative sugar factory, laying the groundwork for his future empire [[10]].

His deep connection with the masses of Baramati was legendary. He wasn’t just their representative; he was their ‘Dada’—a term of respect and authority that signified his unchallenged dominance [[15]]. This grassroots connection translated into an astonishing electoral record: nine consecutive victories from the Baramati Assembly constituency since 1991 [[11]].

The Political Journey of Maharashtra’s Longest-Serving Deputy CM

Ajit Pawar’s ascent to the pinnacle of state power was a masterclass in political maneuvering. Following in the footsteps of his influential uncle, Sharad Pawar, he navigated the complex and often treacherous waters of Maharashtra’s coalition politics with unmatched skill.

His tenure as Finance Minister and Water Resources Minister was marked by decisive action and a reputation for getting things done, which cemented his image as a man of substance beyond mere political rhetoric [[17]].

Six Terms and Countless Alliances

What truly set Ajit Pawar apart was his record as the longest-serving Deputy CM of Maharashtra. He held the post an unprecedented six times, a testament to his indispensability in any ruling coalition, regardless of its ideological makeup [[19]].

His political journey saw him switch alliances with a pragmatism that often drew criticism but always ensured his continued relevance:

  • He served as Deputy CM in Congress-NCP coalitions.
  • He famously executed a dramatic midnight coup in 2019 to form a government with the BJP, only to return to the NCP fold later.
  • Most recently, he was sworn in for his sixth term as Deputy CM in December 2024, this time leading his own faction of the NCP in alliance with the BJP-led government [[26]].

This ability to remain a constant in the ever-shifting sands of Maharashtra politics earned him the moniker of a ‘permanent fixture’ in the Mantralaya, the state secretariat [[18]].

The Enduring Impact of Ajit Pawar’s Passing

The sudden and tragic Ajit Pawar death leaves a massive power vacuum in Maharashtra. His Baramati stronghold, once considered his personal fiefdom, is now up for grabs. The stability of the current ruling coalition, which heavily relied on his faction’s support, is now in serious question [[27]].

For the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the split between his faction and the one led by his cousin, Supriya Sule, adds another layer of complexity to the succession battle. The future of his vast political and cooperative network is now the central question in state politics.

In many ways, Ajit Pawar’s career was a quest for the top job—the Chief Minister’s chair—that remained unfulfilled [[26]]. Yet, his legacy as the most powerful Deputy CM in the state’s history is secure. His passing marks the end of a unique chapter where a single leader could command such immense influence across party lines.

Conclusion

The news of Ajit Pawar’s death is a somber reminder of the fragility of life, even for those who seem to command immense power. From the cooperative fields of Baramati to the highest offices in Mumbai’s Mantralaya, his journey was one of relentless ambition, strategic brilliance, and an unbreakable bond with his constituency. As Maharashtra mourns its ‘Dada,’ the political world will be watching closely to see who can fill the enormous void he leaves behind. His story is a crucial chapter in understanding the intricate dynamics of power in India’s most politically complex state.

Sources

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