Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep shock and grief over the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the tragic plane crash in Baramati. The PM described Pawar as a leader with a strong connection to the grassroots and a lifelong commitment to public service.
In a condolence message, the Prime Minister described Ajit Pawar as “a leader of the people,” noting that he was widely respected for his hard work and his constant presence at the forefront of serving Maharashtra. Modi said Pawar’s understanding of administrative matters and his passion for empowering the poor and the downtrodden stood out during his long political career.
“His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening,” the Prime Minister said, extending condolences to Pawar’s family and his “countless admirers.” He concluded the message with a prayer for peace for the departed leader, saying, “Om Shanti.”
Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra. His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and… pic.twitter.com/mdgwwGzw4R
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 28, 2026
PM Modi also addressed the wider tragedy of the air crash, expressing sorrow over the loss of lives in the incident. He said he was deeply saddened by the crash in Baramati and that his thoughts were with the families who lost their loved ones.
“My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones in the crash,” the Prime Minister said. “Praying for strength and courage for the bereaved families in this moment of profound grief.”
Saddened by the tragic air crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones in the crash. Praying for strength and courage for the bereaved families in this moment of profound grief.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 28, 2026
Ajit Pawar’s death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political circles, drawing condolences from across party lines.