Mumbai, Jan 28 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragic passing of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and NCP president Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati. PM Modi remarked that Pawar was a people's leader with a profound connection to the grassroots.

In his condolence message, he stated, “I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate air crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. My heart goes out to all those mourning their loved ones in this disaster. I pray for strength and resilience for the grieving families during this time of immense sorrow. Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a people's leader with a substantial grassroots connection. He was widely acknowledged as a diligent individual dedicated to serving the people of Maharashtra. His insights into governance and commitment to uplifting the marginalized were commendable. His unexpected passing is profoundly distressing. My condolences to his family and numerous fans. Om Shanti.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared his shock, stating, "I am deeply pained to hear of the sudden loss of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Ajit Pawar. Throughout his extensive public service career, he was devoted to the growth and prosperity of Maharashtra. He was recognized for his empathy towards the populace and steadfast commitment to public service. My sincere condolences go out to his family, admirers, and supporters."

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expressed his sorrow, saying, “The news of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji's sudden demise is incredibly shocking and heartbreaking. He was a close ally during my years in the state legislature, and his exceptional administrative skills, visionary approach to development, and extraordinary ability to connect with people secured his unmatched position in Maharashtra's political landscape. The loss of this people's leader, who aspired for Maharashtra's progress, is not just a loss for the state but for the entire nation. On this sorrowful occasion, I extend my condolences to the Pawar family. May the departed soul find peace. Om Shanti.”

Union Minister C.R. Paatil noted that Ajit Pawar had carved a significant niche in Maharashtra politics, stating, "This represents a significant loss for his family and the state. His absence will undoubtedly alter the political dynamics in Maharashtra."

West Bengal's Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader, Mamata Banerjee, expressed her shock at the sudden loss of Ajit Pawar, stating, "The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and his fellow passengers tragically lost their lives in a catastrophic plane crash at Baramati this morning. I feel a profound sense of loss. My condolences to his family, including his uncle Sharad Pawar ji, and to all of late Ajitji's friends and followers. This incident warrants a thorough investigation,” she emphasized.

Former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal stated, “I am shocked and saddened by the news of Maharashtra's Deputy CM & NCP chief Sh. Ajit Pawar's passing in a plane crash near Baramati. My heartfelt condolences to the Pawar family, his supporters, and the people of Maharashtra. May God grant eternal peace to his soul.”

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant remarked that the tragic demise of Maharashtra's finance minister, Ajit Pawar, has deeply affected everyone. "I had the opportunity to connect closely with him. We frequently met and conversed, and one of his defining characteristics was that he always honored his commitments,” he noted.

NCP-SP member of Parliament from Ahilyanagar Nilesh Lanke stated, “Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death in a plane crash is a significant loss for all of Maharashtra."

Former Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP-SP leader Anil Deshmukh was left speechless and emotional upon hearing of Ajit Pawar's tragic passing in a plane crash in Baramati.

Meanwhile, NCP working president Praful Patel, NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule, and Ajit Pawar's family—including his wife Sunetra Pawar and sons Parth Pawar and Jay Pawar—have departed for Baramati from Delhi.