Mourning in Baramati: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s Final Trip and Last Public Appearances

The tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash has left Baramati and the entire state in shock. Known affectionately as ‘Dada,’ Ajit Pawar was a towering figure in Maharashtra politics and had embarked on a journey from Mumbai to Baramati when his plane crashed before it could safely land.

Final Public Engagements

In the wake of setbacks in the municipal elections, Ajit Pawar was actively working to consolidate the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). On 17 January, he attended an agricultural exhibition in Baramati, accompanied by his uncle Sharad Pawar and senior party leader Supriya Sule. Photographs from the event captured warm interactions, reflecting his close ties with party members and supporters.

Earlier, on 26 January, he served as the Chief Guest at Pune’s 77th Republic Day celebrations. At the event, he personally participated in the flag-hoisting ceremony and saluted the parade, marking his last public appearance before the tragic crash. Pawar was known for his approachable nature and was seen interacting with attendees and even taking selfies with police personnel and citizens.

Political Responsibilities and Recent Activities

As Deputy CM, Ajit Pawar held the Finance portfolio and was the nodal minister for Pune. Following the municipal election setbacks, he had turned his focus to preparations for the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections, meeting party leaders and supporters during his Pune visit.

Recent Engagements with Family and Leaders

Ajit Pawar’s public engagements frequently included prominent members of the Pawar family. On 28 December, he appeared alongside Sharad Pawar at an event in Baramati honoring industrialist Gautam Adani, where both presented him with a memento. The Pawar family, including Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar, Yuvendra Pawar, Rohit Pawar, and Ajit Pawar himself, were photographed together, highlighting the family’s active political presence.

Ajit Pawar’s untimely death has cast a pall of grief over Maharashtra. His last public appearances, filled with warmth and engagement, now stand as poignant memories of a leader whose political journey and personal charisma left a lasting impact on the state.