Five Dead as Small Aircraft Crashes During Landing Attempt

Baramati, Maharashtra: In a tragic turn of events, Ajit Pawar, senior political leader, NCP chief and Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, was killed on Tuesday morning in a plane crash near Baramati airport, according to officials familiar with the matter. The incident also claimed the lives of four others, including the aircraft’s pilots and members of Pawar’s security detail.

The small chartered aircraft, which had taken off from Mumbai at around 8.10 am, reportedly encountered difficulties while attempting to land at Baramati approximately 30 minutes later. The aircraft crashed in an open area close to the airport perimeter, triggering a fire upon impact, eyewitnesses said.

Emergency response teams, including local police, fire brigade units, and medical personnel, rushed to the site immediately. However, all five occupants on board were declared dead at the scene. The wreckage was scattered across a wide radius, indicating the severity of the impact.

According to preliminary information, Pawar was en route to attend four public meetings in Baramati and nearby areas, as part of preparations ahead of the upcoming local body elections next month. The meetings were considered politically significant.

Senior officials from the state administration and civil aviation authorities arrived at the crash site shortly after the incident. An investigation has been ordered, and aviation experts are examining whether technical failure or adverse conditions played a role in the crash. The aircraft’s black box, if recovered, is expected to provide further clarity.

Political leaders across party lines expressed shock and condolences over the tragic incident. Flags were reportedly lowered at several government buildings as a mark of respect in this mock scenario.

Further details are awaited as authorities continue rescue operations and the investigation progresses.