Ajit Pawar's chartered plane crash-landed near Baramati on January with fire and smoke reported at the site following an emergency landing.
Ajit Pawar and four others, including two crew members, were killed in the crash, a DGCA confirmed.
Emergency services deployed, DGCA investigation underway into technical or weather-related causes, amid high-level state monitoring.
An aircraft carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar made an emergency crash landing near Baramati in Pune district on Wednesday, killing Pawar and four others onboard.
The incident occurred around 8:30 AM while the plane was en route from Mumbai to Baramati for official engagements. As per a senior DGCA official the two crew members were also killed in the crash.
Initial accounts from eyewitnesses and local authorities indicate the aircraft, believed to be a chartered private plane, suffered a technical malfunction shortly after takeoff or during approach, forcing a hard landing in an open field close to Baramati town.
Visuals circulating on social media show thick black smoke rising from the wreckage, with emergency services including fire tenders, police, and NDRF teams, rushing to the location.
The crash has triggered a major response from state authorities, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directing immediate coordination for relief and investigation.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal probe into the cause, which preliminary reports suggest could involve engine failure or adverse weather conditions.
Political leaders across the country have offered condolences over the demise of the state's Deputy Chief Minister.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was saddened by the tragic air crash. "My thoughts are with all those who lost their loved ones in the crash. Praying for strength and courage for the bereaved families in this moment of profound grief," he added.
India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on X said he was deeply shocked and pained to learn about the untimely demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister.
"Throughout his long public life, he remained committed to the development and prosperity of Maharashtra. He was known for his compassion for the people and his unwavering dedication to public service. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers, and admirers," he added.
