Mumbai, Jan 28 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and leader of Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister and head of NCP, describing it as a personal loss.

“A dedicated leader, skilled administrator, and one known for his punctuality, is no longer with us. He made significant contributions to the state and the government. I feel like I have lost an elder brother. Along with CM Devendra Fadnavis and Dy CM Ajit Pawar, we were a united team working for the state’s progress. We have lost one of our own.”

He called for an investigation into the plane crash to prevent such tragedies in the future. “This is a devastating loss for the state. Though he appeared strict, he had a kind heart. As finance minister during my tenure, Ajit Dada diligently pushed for state development and was instrumental in launching several welfare initiatives, including the Ladki Bahin Yojana,” stated Dy CM Shinde.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal remarked, “We are filled with grief... He was a close friend and held a vital role in our government. A remarkable leader of Maharashtra is gone. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and supporters. I pray that God provides strength to his family during this challenging time.”

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed, “I am profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of Shri Ajit Pawar in the plane crash in Baramati today. My sincere condolences to his family and all impacted by this tragedy. May his contributions to public service be remembered, and may the grieving find strength in this sorrowful period.”

State revenue minister and senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule shared his shock over the heartbreaking news of the plane crash that took Ajit Dada Pawar's life.

“It's hard to come to terms with this tragedy. Ajit Dada will always be remembered as a true people's leader, providing clear direction and relentless momentum for Maharashtra's all-round development. His exceptional administrative skills, rapid work rate, and dedication to public welfare secured him a permanent place in the hearts of the people,” he reflected.

“Ajit Dada had vast administrative knowledge. I often sought his guidance and discussed various matters openly with him. Working together in the Mahayuti alliance always inspired me with his direct approach to problem-solving. His departure is not just the loss of a leader, but a significant void for Maharashtra itself. This nation has lost a visionary statesman, and I have lost a dear elder friend and mentor. Accepting that Ajit Dada is no longer with us is still hard to believe,” he lamented.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences and deepest tribute to Ajit Dada and all who tragically perished in this accident. May God grant their souls eternal peace. I stand in solidarity with the grieving families and all whose lives they touched. Om Shanti,” he concluded.

Shiv Sena leader and former leader of opposition in the state council, Ambadas Danve, stated, “Ajit Dada... The leadership that stood for four decades of relentless hard work has left us in a fleeting moment. Maharashtra has lost a leader of immense significance in Ajit Dada. This loss is not just to the Pawar family but to the entire state. During this time of sorrow, we all stand united with the grieving Pawar family.”

BJP MP Ujwal Nikam commented on the death of Maha Dy CM Ajit Pawar, saying, “This is an incredibly sad event. I have known him for years. He always kept his promises. Once, after I had an accident traveling from Pune to Mumbai, Ajit ji called to inquire about my well-being. He genuinely cared for others. His wife, Sunetra Pawar, is a fellow Rajya Sabha member. This is a significant loss for her, as well as for Maharashtra.”