Maharashtra’s political circles are in mourning following the plane crash that killed Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Union Minister Ramdass Athawale, addressing reporters in Pune, labeled it a colossal setback for the state.
‘I had very good ties with Ajit Dada,’ Athawale said emotionally. Pawar’s development-focused vision prompted his Mahayuti entry. Renowned for his commanding presence, Pawar’s utterances held authority, his decisions were incisive, and his administrative prowess and punctuality set benchmarks.
Athawale praised Pawar’s fearlessness in expression. ‘The passing of such a leader signals the end of an impactful era in our progressive state – a key bastion has fallen.’ Pawar unwaveringly backed Dalits, toilers, and deprived sections, his word being law in or out of power.
‘Maharashtra cherishes his enduring contributions,’ he added. Minister Chhagan Bhujbal insisted on probes by police, DGCA, and aviation authorities. ‘Investigate regardless – this is too significant to overlook.’
Pawar’s absence will reverberate through his party’s ranks and state politics. ‘Even one worker’s exit affects us; this was our national president and deputy CM,’ Bhujbal observed. He called Pawar a courageous, ever-smiling soul whose sudden loss is shattering. ‘Recovery will be challenging.’ The state now navigates uncharted waters without this stalwart.