Tragic air accident claims leader popularly known as Dada
India's sporting community has been plunged into mourning following the sudden and tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, affectionately known as 'Dada,' lost his life in a devastating plane crash near Baramati on Wednesday morning.
The accident occurred around 9 a.m. while the Deputy CM was en route from Mumbai to Baramati to address a public meeting amidst ongoing local elections. Reports indicate the aircraft went down just an hour after takeoff, killing Pawar and five others on board. Beyond his heavyweight status in state politics, Pawar was a significant figure in Indian sports administration, serving as the President of the Maharashtra Olympic Association.
Tributes poured in immediately from legendary figures across the sporting landscape. Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a leader he described as dedicated to the people. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Tendulkar stated that Maharashtra had lost a committed public servant and offered prayers for his family.
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief PT Usha also shared her shock, highlighting Pawar's contributions to the sporting world. "His absence will be felt in sports... My heartfelt condolences with his family, friends and supporters," she posted on Instagram.
Former cricketers and athletes joined the chorus of condolences. Yusuf Pathan, former India cricketer and current TMC MP, called for a proper investigation into the crash while remembering Pawar's commitment and integrity. Olympic medallist boxer Vijender Singh described the news as "heart-wrenching," while current cricketer Ajinkya Rahane and former captain Mohammed Azharuddin expressed their solidarity with the grieving family.
With Agency Inputs and Image Source: Esakal
