Mumbai, January 28 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed profound sorrow over the shocking and premature loss of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in Baramati. In his heartfelt condolence message, CM Fadnavis remarked, “The untimely demise of Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar is a heartbreaking event. The state is engulfed in sorrow. Losing a leader of his stature is an unparalleled tragedy. On a personal level, he was a true friend, and together we faced numerous challenges. His sudden departure while he was actively contributing to Maharashtra's growth is a significant loss. We extend our support to his family. Alongside Eknath Shinde ji, I will travel to Baramati today. I've informed the Prime Minister and Home Minister about this unfortunate incident, and they too have expressed their condolences.”

He continued, “Dada has departed! The news of the passing of Ajitdada Pawar, a beloved leader with deep roots in the community, my dear friend and colleague, in a plane crash is profoundly devastating. It feels like a shock to the soul. My thoughts are clouded, and I am at a loss for words to describe my feelings. I have lost a strong and kind-hearted friend, and this personal loss is irreplaceable. Today is an exceptionally challenging day for Maharashtra, and I pay my sincere respects to Dada.”

He added, “We grieve alongside his entire family and the NCP family. Additionally, four others tragically lost their lives in this incident, and we share in the sorrow of their families as well. I have canceled all my engagements and will leave for Baramati shortly.”

Karnataka's Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar expressed his shock at Ajit Pawar's death. “Hearing about his passing was shocking. As politicians, we must exercise caution while traveling. We have lost many leaders in similar circumstances. Ajit Pawar was a visionary leader, and just the other day, the Maharashtra CM praised his cooperation in various initiatives. May his soul find peace, and may God grant his family and supporters the strength to cope with this loss. His family also has connections in Bengaluru, having visited relatives recently. Ajit Pawar was a prominent leader who left the party for a political future and later returned. I won't delve into that matter further, but he was serving as Maharashtra's DCM.”

Regarding the rising frequency of plane crashes and claims of technical faults, he stated, “I will address this matter once a comprehensive report is available. I have received information from many, including friends in Mumbai, concerning this issue.”