Bengaluru, Jan 28 (NationPress) The Karnataka State Legislature on Wednesday expressed its condolences for the premature passing of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a morning aircraft crash. The Karnataka Assembly took a moment of silence in remembrance of Ajit Pawar, with many leaders recalling him as a formidable politician cherished by the people of Maharashtra.

Speaker U.T. Khader, while addressing the assembly, remarked, “It is with profound sorrow that I inform this House of the demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and five other individuals aboard the aircraft this morning.”

“Born on July 22, 1959, in Ahmednagar, Ajit Pawar entered public service in 1982 when he was elected to a cooperative sugar mandal. He held the presidency of the Pune District Cooperative Bank for 16 years. In 1991, he was elected to the Lok Sabha representing the Baramati Parliamentary Constituency and served as the Union Defence Minister,” Khader noted.

“He was repeatedly elected from the Baramati Assembly Constituency and held various roles, including Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly. At the time of his passing, he was serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra,” Khader added.

“He was a champion for the underprivileged, Dalits, and the poor. Known for his straightforward approach, he was affectionately called ‘Ajit Dada’. Tragically, he met his end while en route to his Baramati constituency to launch development initiatives,” Khader conveyed in his message to the assembly.

Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil remarked, “It is no exaggeration to say that Ajit Pawar was one of the unique politicians in our nation. His leadership and work ethic have received widespread acclaim over the past decade. From 7 am to 11 pm, he was accessible to the public, always ready to address their concerns.”

“Under the mentorship of Sharad Pawar, he became a significant political figure in the country. While I served as the Congress in-charge for Maharashtra, I collaborated closely with him. We formed a coalition government with the NCP, and during that period, Ajit Pawar proved to be a decisive leader—once he made a decision, he stood by it without wavering,” he stated.

“I hold fond memories of our friendship. He always maintained positive relations with Karnataka and its residents. Ajit Pawar supported the Doodh Ganga Project, advocating for Karnataka. Being pro-farmer and a seasoned cooperative leader, his contributions to the survival of sugar factories are noteworthy. I extend my deepest respects,” Patil added.

Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka stated, “Ajit Anant Rao Pawar served as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. I learned of the incident while at my office. Tragically, six individuals lost their lives, including Ajit Pawar, in the aircraft accident during landing. He was affectionately known as ‘Dada’. He served eight terms as a legislator and held the Deputy Chief Minister position six times.”

“His focus was on rural development and irrigation, along with a keen interest in industrial and urban advancement. His political journey was filled with both triumphs and challenges,” Ashoka expressed.

JD(S) floor leader C.B. Suresh Babu shared, “I express my condolences for the loss of Ajit Pawar. He was instrumental in the advancement of the Baramati constituency and held the Deputy Chief Minister position for an extended duration. His working style earned him the affectionate nickname ‘Dada’ from supporters and political peers.”

Minister for Women and Child Welfare Laxmi Hebbalkar remarked, “Ajit Pawar was a true statesman. Coming from a neighboring district, he garnered substantial support in our area. His tenure included responsibilities in Irrigation, Rural Development, and Industries, making significant contributions to the growth of Maharashtra. He was a resolute leader, making firm decisions and being adored by the populace.”

“We share close ties with the Baramati constituency. Many attest to his early morning meetings with constituents as early as 6:30 am. He was a dedicated politician. Despite facing challenges later in his career, it is hard to believe he is no longer with us,” she stated.

Former Deputy Chief Minister and Congress MLA Laxman Savadi expressed, “The news of Ajit Pawar’s passing has profoundly saddened us. He was candid and spoke without reservation. I participated in numerous meetings with him and learned valuable lessons about living meaningfully. Achieving six terms as Deputy Chief Minister is no small feat; it requires winning the hearts of the people.”

“I hope Ajit Pawar is reborn in this country for the greater good. He personified a model politician, and we have much to learn from his legacy,” Savadi concluded.