India witnessed a moment of deep grief on Thursday as Maharashtra bade farewell to veteran leader Ajit Pawar. The final rites of the Nationalist Congress Party president were held with full state honours in Baramati. His sudden death in a plane crash has left the political landscape shaken. Party workers, supporters, and common citizens gathered in large numbers to pay their last respects.
Ajit Pawar’s demise has been described by party leaders as a black day for Maharashtra politics. His contribution to public life and grassroots leadership was remembered across party lines. The atmosphere in Baramati remained emotional as slogans echoed in memory of the departed leader.
Plane Crash That Shook Maharashtra Politics
Ajit Pawar and four others lost their lives on Wednesday morning in a tragic plane crash near Baramati airport. The incident occurred when the aircraft was preparing to land. Emergency teams rushed to the site, but the fire had already engulfed the wreckage. The loss of Ajit Pawar at the age of 66 has created a major void in the state’s leadership.
The crash has not only impacted the BJP-led coalition government in Maharashtra but has also raised questions about the future direction of the Nationalist Congress Party under his leadership. Pawar was seen as a decisive and mass-oriented leader with strong administrative experience.
Last Journey Begins From Baramati
Ajit Pawar’s mortal remains were brought to Baramati on Wednesday evening. The body was kept at a local educational institution for public homage. Thousands of party workers and residents gathered despite the late hour. Emotional scenes were witnessed as people raised slogans in his honour and remembered his long political journey.
On Thursday morning, the body was taken from Katewadi to the Vidya Pratishthan grounds. The entire route was lined with mourners. Many were seen in tears, holding flowers and party flags. Baramati, considered Pawar’s political stronghold, appeared completely silent in grief.
State Honours and Presence of Senior Leaders
The final rites of Ajit Pawar were performed with full state honours at the Vidya Pratishthan ground. Senior political leaders from across the country attended the funeral. Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present to pay tribute. There were also indications that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could attend the ceremony.
NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s uncle, reached the venue early in the morning. His presence added to the emotional weight of the occasion. Leaders from allied and opposition parties stood together, reflecting the respect Ajit Pawar commanded.
Maharashtra Declares Mourning
Following Ajit Pawar’s death, the Maharashtra government announced three days of state mourning. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared a public holiday. Schools and government offices across the state will remain closed until January 30.
The decision reflects the scale of loss felt by the state. Flags were flown at half-mast, and official events were postponed. Citizens across Maharashtra expressed sorrow through social media and local gatherings.
Identification at Crash Site
Ajit Pawar’s identity was confirmed at the crash site with the help of his wristwatch. According to eyewitnesses, the aircraft wreckage was found burning near the runway, about 200 meters from Baramati airport. The watch became a crucial identifier amid the severely damaged remains.
The detail gained symbolic attention as the clock is also the election symbol of the Nationalist Congress Party. Videos circulating from the site showed locals pointing towards the wristwatch, claiming it belonged to the leader.
Investigation Into the Crash
Authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the accident. Police registered an accidental death report in the case involving Ajit Pawar and four others. The report was filed at Baramati Taluka Police Station.
As per procedure, the case will be transferred to the Maharashtra Criminal Investigation Department. The inquiry will be based on findings from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau. Officials confirmed that the black box recovered from the aircraft will be analyzed. It includes flight data and cockpit voice recordings, which are expected to provide clarity on the cause of the crash.
Tributes Pour In From Across the Country
Several leaders paid tribute to Ajit Pawar on Wednesday. Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat expressed deep sorrow during a condolence meeting at Raj Bhavan. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of the departed leader.
The Governor described Ajit Pawar as a committed and sensitive mass leader. He said Pawar remained deeply connected with people at the grassroots. His contribution to public service in Maharashtra would always be remembered.
Workers and Supporters in Mourning
NCP workers from across the state reached Baramati to bid farewell. Emotional chants like “Ajit Dada Amar Rahe” and “Ajit Dada Laut Aao” filled the air as the body was placed for public viewing. Many supporters struggled to hold back tears, recalling decades of leadership and accessibility.
The funeral venue saw heavy security arrangements, but the mood remained solemn. Volunteers helped manage the crowd, while party leaders met supporters personally, offering condolences.
A Leader Remembered
Ajit Pawar was known for his strong administrative grip and direct approach. Over the years, he played a key role in shaping Maharashtra’s political and development agenda. His sudden passing has left supporters stunned and colleagues searching for words.
As the flames rose during the final rites, Baramati stood united in grief. The farewell marked not just the end of a political career but the loss of a leader deeply rooted in public life. The coming days will determine how Maharashtra politics adapts to the void left behind.
