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Tragedy struck in Maharashtra’s political arena when their Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Baramati, Pune.

The ill-fated aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar appeared “a bit unstable in the air” and exploded the moment it crashed on the ground near the airport according to  eyewitness.

Another person who witnessed the incident said that after the crash, the aircraft burst into flames, followed by four to five consecutive blasts.

Pawar (66) and four other persons were killed after their aircraft crashed near Baramati at 8.50 am, as per officials.

Eyewitness added that they had noticed the aircraft was attempting to land after circling the airport in an apparently poor visibility condition.

“It took a round in the air, appeared a bit unstable and as it was approaching the runway to land, it hit the ground hard and exploded. There was a loud sound and could be heard at our home,” said a woman eyewitness who was seen on local tv channels.

Many news agencies and media are quoting Superintendent of Police, Sandip Singh Gill stating that after the crash, there was a fire. “People onboard were immediately taken to the hospital.”

On haring the tragic news, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah called Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to enquire about the plane crash.

PM Modi, in a series of social media message twitted on X said  “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.”

tIn an another message the Prime Minister said, “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 downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”

Earlier today, Sharad Pawar and his wife drove from their Mumbai residence to reach the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College in Baramati, where the mortal remains of all five deceased, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, are kept.