Tragedy struck in Baramati, India on January 28 when one of the most powerful and influential leaders in politics was killed in a horrific plane crash.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, 66, a high ranking and commanding politician in Mumbai, was on his way to a campaign rally when the plane he was travelling on, a VT-SSK Learjet 45, crashed near the designated runway. Pawar along with four other passengers including airplane crew and pilot, were killed instantly in the crash. An investigation into what caused the plane accident could take months authorities in Mumbai have said.

The accident sent shock waves to the political scene in Mumbai, particularly to the Nationalist Congress Party, of which Pawar belonged. The politician served in the capacity of Deputy Chief Minister for six terms until his recent death.

Media coverage of the crash has been nonstop in India and has been heavily concentrated in Mumbai where Pawar and his family lived and worked.

The popular politician hails from a well-known political dynasty. His grandparents Govindrao and Sharda Pawar held local political offices in 1938 in Pune which influenced his journey into politics.

Pawar leaves behind his wife Sunetra, who within hours of his cremation, was sworn in as the new and first female Duty Chief Minister of Maharashstra. The quick appointment has led many in Mumbai to question the reason behind the rush to fill the seat within days of her husband’s death.

Pawar also leaves behind two adult sons Parth and Jay Pawar and numerous relatives including his cousin, the famous politician Supriya Sule, a member of the Indian Parliament also representing the Baramati Disctrict of Pune, India.

The journey continues…

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