A tragic aviation incident has shaken India’s political landscape after a aircraft carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed on Wednesday morning. The disaster, which occurred around 8:41 AM local time on January 28, 2026, is believed to have claimed the lives of all six individuals aboard according to preliminary reports.
The aircraft, whose specific make and model remain under investigation, was en route to an undisclosed destination when it went down under circumstances that aviation authorities have yet to fully determine. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the crash site, though the severity of the impact suggests minimal chances of survival for those on board.
Ajit Pawar, a prominent political figure and key leader within the Nationalist Congress Party, held significant influence in Maharashtra state politics. His potential demise creates immediate political ramifications for the state’s governing coalition and raises questions about succession within both the administration and his political party.
The crash has prompted an urgent investigation by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, with officials working to establish both the cause of the accident and the complete list of casualties. Aviation experts are examining multiple potential factors including weather conditions, mechanical failure, and human error.
This incident marks one of the most significant political tragedies in recent Indian history, drawing national attention and condolences from across the political spectrum. The government has announced heightened security protocols for officials traveling by air while the investigation continues.