Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar survived a fatal Learjet 45 crash near Baramati Airport, prompting immediate intervention from the DGCA and AAIB. This marks the second major incident involving VSR Ventures’ jets in just two and a half years, raising serious questions about aircraft safety and emergency protocols. The VT SSK registered Learjet reportedly crashed during a landing attempt, leading to post-impact fire, while rescue teams rushed to extract passengers. Early reports confirm that Pawar was critically injured but found alive, reigniting debates about air rescue operations and aviation safety measures. WATCH 

Maharashtra is in deep mourning as Ajit Pawar (1959–2026), the veteran Deputy Chief Minister and NCP stalwart, tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati. The Learjet 45, operated by VSR Aviation, attempted an emergency landing after departing from Mumbai but veered off the runway, exploding into a fireball. Eyewitnesses reported a sudden jolt before the aircraft hit the perimeter field, leaving no survivors. The devastating crash claimed the lives of Ajit Pawar, his personal security officer, an attendant, the pilot-in-command, and the first officer. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but the intensity of the blaze prevented any rescue efforts. Known affectionately as “Ajit Dada”, Pawar’s political career spanned over four decades, serving as Deputy Chief Minister six times and representing Baramati as a seven-time MLA. WATCH