Guwahati/Agartala, Jan 28 (NationPress) Leaders and Chief Ministers from various Northeastern states conveyed their heartfelt sorrow over the unexpected passing of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on Wednesday morning.

Described as a veteran public servant, the Chief Ministers acknowledged that the 66-year-old dedicated his life to serving the public and enhancing their welfare.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared his condolences on X, stating: "I am deeply saddened by the loss of Ajit Pawar ji, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in an unfortunate plane crash this morning."

“A seasoned leader who devoted his life to public service and the welfare of the people, his contributions to the state’s development and governance will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, supporters, and the people of Maharashtra during this difficult time. May he attain sadgati. Om Shanti," he added.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha also expressed his sorrow on X, stating: "I am profoundly saddened by the untimely passing of Ajit Pawar ji, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in a plane accident. His visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to Maharashtra’s progress, and lifelong dedication to public service will be remembered and missed. Heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and admirers during this time of immense sorrow."

Expressing his shock, Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party President Conrad K. Sangma expressed on X: "I am shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of Shri Ajit Pawar ji, the Hon’ble Deputy CM of Maharashtra."

"Shri Pawar was instrumental in Maharashtra's development and served the community for over three decades in various roles. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and the citizens of his state. May he rest in peace," Sangma remarked.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu referred to Pawar as a devoted public servant and expressed his deep shock over his passing.

"We mourn the untimely demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji and others who tragically lost their lives in the aircraft crash in Baramati, Pune district, today. Shri Ajit Pawar ji was a dedicated public servant whose contributions to the people of Maharashtra will always be cherished. In this moment of profound grief, my thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones, and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss. May their souls attain sadgati. Om Shanti," he posted on X.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio shared on X: "I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy CM Shri Ajit Pawar and others who perished in the plane crash. His passing is a significant loss to Maharashtra and those whose lives he impacted through his extensive public service. My condolences to the bereaved families. May their souls rest in peace."

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang stated on X: "I am extremely shocked and saddened by the tragic news of the premature passing of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji in the plane crash in Baramati. His departure is a tremendous loss to the people of Maharashtra and all who knew and respected him. My heartfelt condolences to the Pawar family, his supporters, and every citizen mourning this immense loss. May his legacy of service and leadership be forever remembered. Om Shanti."

Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also expressed his condolences regarding Ajit Pawar’s death: "I am deeply saddened by the tragic demise of Shri Ajit Pawar ji, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in a plane crash at Baramati. Shri Ajit Pawar ji was a seasoned leader who served the people of Maharashtra with unwavering commitment and dedication. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and to the people of Maharashtra. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

Ajit Pawar was en route from Mumbai to Baramati to attend a public meeting amid the ongoing Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections when the aircraft tragically crashed while trying to land near Baramati around 9 a.m. The crash resulted in the death of all six individuals on board, including the NCP leader.