Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke with NCP-SP Chief Sharad Pawar on January 28, 2026, to convey his deepest condolences following the sudden death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash near Baramati. The 66-year-old senior leader, along with four others, lost his life when the chartered aircraft crashed during landing in Pune district earlier that morning.

In a heartfelt post on X, PM Modi described Ajit Pawar as a dedicated people’s leader with deep grassroots connections and a strong reputation for hard work. He highlighted Pawar’s administrative acumen and commitment to uplifting the poor and marginalized sections of society in Maharashtra. Calling the demise “untimely and very shocking,” Modi extended sympathies to the bereaved family and Pawar’s countless admirers, signing off with “Om Shanti.”

The Prime Minister also expressed sorrow over the broader tragedy, noting that his thoughts were with all families who lost loved ones in the crash. He prayed for strength and courage for those grieving during this difficult time. Officials confirmed the telephonic conversation between Modi and Sharad Pawar, underscoring the cross-party respect for the departed leader despite ongoing political rivalries.

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Ajit Pawar’s death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political circles, where he played a pivotal role in the ruling Mahayuti alliance. The incident has left a leadership vacuum in his faction of the Nationalist Congress Party and raised fresh questions about coalition stability and succession.

Tributes continue to pour in from leaders across party lines as the state observes three days of mourning. Ajit Pawar’s funeral was held with full state honours in Baramati on January 29, attended by top dignitaries including the Prime Minister and Home Minister Amit Shah.

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