A rebel who remained in power, Ajit Pawar’s political story unlike any other leader
Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu):The political journey of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, a towering figure who left a deep imprint on state politics, has reportedly come to an end. The leader who was often described as impossible to sideline from power has, according to reports, succumbed to injuries sustained in a plane accident in Baramati on Wednesday.
As per PTI, Ajit Pawar was seriously injured after the aircraft he was travelling in crashed during landing. He was rushed to a local medical college, where doctors made sustained efforts to save him, but he could not survive. The report states that five people, including Ajit Pawar, his personal security officer, and two crew members, lost their lives in the incident.
Last breath in hospital, tragedy strikes his political stronghold
The reported accident occurred in Baramati, Ajit Pawar’s political bastion and constituency with which he shared a deep personal and political connection. After the aircraft crash during landing, he was taken to hospital in critical condition, but the injuries proved fatal.
Ajit Pawar was the sitting MLA from Baramati and had recently won the 2025 Assembly elections, defeating his nephew Yugendra Pawar. The incident in his own stronghold has reportedly left supporters and party workers deeply shocked.
At the center of power, yet the CM post remained elusive
Ajit Pawar was considered one of the most influential figures in Maharashtra politics, maintaining his authority even as governments changed. He took oath as Deputy Chief Minister six times, creating a rare political record.
Despite holding key ministries such as irrigation, rural development, and water resources under several chief ministers including Vilasrao Deshmukh, Prithviraj Chavan, and later administrations, the chief minister’s post always remained just out of reach.
Journey began in the cooperative sector
Born on July 22, 1959, Ajit Pawar inherited a political legacy but built his reputation through administrative control and organizational strength. At just 23, he joined the board of a cooperative sugar factory, gradually strengthening his hold over the cooperative sector.
In 1991, he became chairman of the Pune Central Cooperative Bank and held the post for 16 years. The same year, he was elected to Parliament from Baramati but later shifted focus to state politics. Since 1995, he remained a consistent presence in the Maharashtra Assembly, winning seven consecutive terms till 2024.
With his reported passing, a major chapter in Maharashtra politics is said to have closed.