Baramati, Jan 28: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's mortal remains were brought to his residence in Katewadi on Thursday, ahead of his last rites. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader tragically lost his life in a plane crash earlier on the same day. Funeral preparations are currently underway at the Vidya Pratishthan ground in Baramati, where a large number of mourners are expected to pay their final respects.
Supporters of Ajit Pawar gathered outside the Ahilyabai Holkar Government Medical College to bid him farewell as his body was taken out for the final journey. Prominent figures, including Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar, expressed deep sorrow, remembering Pawar for his disciplined leadership, command over administration, and personal warmth. Kesarkar shared that Pawar, known for his early start to the day and strong administrative skills, had a special place in everyone's hearts. He also emphasized the tragedy’s impact on the entire state, calling for no political discussions during this period of mourning.
The funeral procession will begin from Vidya Pratishthan campus (Gadima) at 9 AM, passing through the city to allow the people of Baramati to pay their tributes. The ceremony will culminate at the Vidya Pratishthan Ground for the funeral, scheduled to take place at 11 AM. The mortal remains of Ajit Pawar will be carried in a decorated rath, a chariot adorned with flowers and a banner reading "Swargiya Ajitdada Pawar amar rahein" (Long live Ajit Dada Pawar), marking his final journey.
Ajit Pawar, who was born on July 22, 1959, in Deolali Pravara, Ahmednagar district, was widely known as Ajit Dada for his tireless work and connection with the people of Maharashtra. His career spanned decades, with significant roles in cooperative organisations, milk unions, sugar factories, and banks. Pawar’s political career began in 1991 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha, after which he went on to hold numerous positions, including MLA, Minister of State, and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
He served as Deputy Chief Minister for six non-consecutive terms under various governments, including those led by Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray, and Eknath Shinde. Pawar's decision in November 2019 to split the NCP and align with the BJP-led government was a defining moment in his career, and his faction was later recognized by the Election Commission in February 2024.
Despite his political shifts, Ajit Pawar remained closely aligned with his uncle, Sharad Pawar, under whom he began his career. The two factions of NCP recently came together in the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Elections, showcasing a united development agenda.
Ajit Pawar is survived by his wife, Sunetra Pawar, and sons Jay and Parth Pawar. His death marks the end of an era for Maharashtra politics, with his leadership, integrity, and straightforward approach leaving a lasting impact on the state's political landscape.
