Sunetra Pawar Expresses Doubts Over Ajit Pawar's Fatal Air Crash

Sunetra Pawar Expresses Doubts Over Ajit Pawar's Fatal Air Crash | Quick Digest
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar has publicly voiced doubts regarding the air crash that killed her husband, former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, in January 2026. She demanded a thorough investigation, echoing calls for a CBI probe into the incident amidst her campaign for the Baramati by-polls.

Key Highlights

  • Sunetra Pawar expressed doubts about Ajit Pawar's January 2026 fatal air crash.
  • She demanded answers and strict punishment for those responsible.
  • The statement was made during her Baramati by-poll campaign rally.
  • Ajit Pawar, then Deputy CM, died in a Learjet 45XR crash on January 28, 2026.
  • A CBI probe into the crash has been sought by Sunetra Pawar and NCP leaders.
  • Ajit Pawar's nephew, Rohit Pawar, also alleged foul play and filed an FIR.
In a significant development echoing concerns over the sudden demise of a prominent political figure, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar has publicly expressed her doubts regarding the air crash that claimed the life of her husband, former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, in January 2026. Her statement, made during a concluding rally for her political campaign in Baramati on April 21, 2026, underscored a persistent demand for clarity and justice surrounding the tragic incident. Ajit Pawar, a veteran politician who served multiple terms as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, died on January 28, 2026, when a Learjet 45XR aircraft carrying him and four others crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport. The accident occurred as he was traveling from Mumbai to Baramati, reportedly to campaign for local elections. All five occupants on board perished in the crash, which was attributed to low visibility and heavy fog. The incident left a significant void in Maharashtra's political landscape, particularly within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) which he led. Sunetra Pawar, who herself assumed the office of Deputy Chief Minister on January 31, 2026, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Maharashtra, emphasized the need for comprehensive answers about the crash. She asserted that if any party was found to be at fault, they should face the strictest punishment. This call for a thorough investigation is not new; in February 2026, Sunetra Pawar, accompanied by senior NCP leaders including Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel, met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to formally demand a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter. CM Fadnavis reportedly assured them that the state government would engage with the Union Home Ministry regarding their request. The demand for a deeper inquiry has also been championed by other members of the Pawar family. Rohit Pawar, Ajit Pawar's nephew from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction, had previously raised serious allegations of 'sabotage' concerning the air crash in February 2026. He subsequently lodged a 'Zero FIR' under Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita in April 2026. This FIR has since been forwarded to the Maharashtra CID, which plans to incorporate it into its ongoing investigation, highlighting the deepening mystery and political intrigue surrounding Ajit Pawar's death. The context of Sunetra Pawar's recent statement is the ongoing political activity in Baramati, particularly ahead of by-polls scheduled for April 23, 2026. Baramati is a traditional stronghold of the Pawar family and has been a hotbed of intense political rivalry. Notably, in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Sunetra Pawar had contested against her sister-in-law, Supriya Sule (daughter of Sharad Pawar), in a highly publicized 'Pawar vs. Pawar' contest for the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency. Supriya Sule emerged victorious in that contest by a significant margin. The current by-polls, however, appear to be playing out under different political dynamics, with some reports even suggesting support from Supriya Sule for Sunetra Pawar's campaign, indicating a possible strategic realignment or a broader Mahayuti alliance effort. At the rally where Sunetra Pawar voiced her doubts, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was also present and echoed the sentiment for truth, stating that they would not rest until the entire truth about Ajit Pawar's air crash is revealed. The garlanded black-and-white photo of Ajit Pawar prominently displayed on the dais served as a poignant reminder of the loss and the unresolved questions. Sunetra Pawar, visibly emotional, affirmed her commitment to continuing her husband's legacy and serving the people of Baramati, emphasizing her dedication despite personal loss. The ongoing investigations by various agencies, coupled with the political demands for a CBI probe, ensure that the mystery surrounding Ajit Pawar's air crash remains a significant and sensitive issue in Maharashtra politics, with potential implications for future political alignments and public trust in institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Ajit Pawar?

Ajit Pawar, who was serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, died in a plane crash on January 28, 2026, in Baramati, along with four other occupants.

Why does Sunetra Pawar have doubts about the air crash?

Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar's widow and current Deputy Chief Minister, expressed doubts about the circumstances of the air crash during a political rally, demanding answers and strict punishment if any fault is found. Other family members, like Rohit Pawar, have also alleged 'sabotage'.

Is there an ongoing investigation into Ajit Pawar's air crash?

Yes, investigations are ongoing. Sunetra Pawar and other NCP leaders have demanded a CBI probe. Additionally, Rohit Pawar's 'Zero FIR' alleging sabotage has been incorporated into the Maharashtra CID's investigation.

What is Sunetra Pawar's current political role?

Sunetra Pawar is currently serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, having assumed office on January 31, 2026, following her husband's death. She is also a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha since June 2024.

What is the significance of the Baramati by-polls in this context?

Sunetra Pawar's statement expressing doubts about the air crash was made during her campaign for the Baramati by-polls, scheduled for April 23, 2026. This election highlights the continued political activity and focus on the Baramati constituency, which is a stronghold of the Pawar family.

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