Ajit Pawar Death: Who Will Be The Maratha Leader's Political Successor?

Last Updated:January 28, 2026, 12:15 IST

Ajit Pawar’s passing leaves a vacuum in Baramati and Marathwada politics, and the question of succession looms large

Ajit Pawar's immediate family includes his wife, Sunetra Pawar, a sitting Rajya Sabha MP, and his sons, Parth and Jay Pawar. (PTI/File)

The Pawar family and Maharashtra politics was plunged into mourning on Wednesday, with the tragic death of NCP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. The devastating incident raises pressing questions about the future of Baramati and the Marathwada political landscape.

Around 8:48am, Ajit Pawar’s private chartered Learjet 45 crashed while attempting to land at Baramati airport and caught fire. Five people, including Pawar, his security personnel, and crew members, lost their lives. Pawar had been en route to address four public meetings for zilla parishad elections in his home constituency, but fate intervened tragically.

Affectionately known as ‘Dada’, Ajit Pawar was a central figure in Maharashtra politics for more than two decades. His death is a significant blow not only to the ruling Mahayuti alliance but also to the Maratha political establishment, where he was considered a pillar of strength.

Known for his administrative acumen and decisive leadership, Pawar played a pivotal role in shaping policy and connecting with grassroots workers. His absence is expected to have a tangible impact on upcoming municipal and district council elections, where his personal touch and political influence were unmatched.

Ajit Pawar’s leadership was marked by a deep connection with the people. Respected for his hard work and commitment to governance, he championed the empowerment of the poor and disadvantaged, earning a reputation as a leader who combined development with a pragmatic, hands-on approach.

The Question of Succession

Ajit Pawar’s passing leaves a vacuum in Baramati and Marathwada politics, and the question of succession looms large. His immediate family includes his wife, Sunetra Pawar, a sitting Rajya Sabha MP, and his sons, Parth and Jay Pawar.

Parth Pawar, who contested the 2019 Lok Sabha election from Maval but lost, may now be expected to take on his father’s political mantle. Sunetra Pawar, known for her administrative skills and social work, is seen as a strong contender to carry forward Ajit Pawar’s legacy in Baramati. Jay Pawar, currently involved in family businesses, may also enter politics given the changed circumstances.

Sharad Pawar and the Family Dynamics

The tragedy has also brought the Pawar family closer. Veteran NCP leader Sharad Pawar faces the delicate challenge of preserving his legacy while keeping the party and family factions united. Speculation is rife about the potential reunification of the NCP’s factions, a process hinted at by recent collaboration between Supriya Sule and Ajit Pawar. As the MP from Baramati and a key family figure, Supriya Sule is expected to play a crucial role in navigating this transition.

Ajit Pawar’s family has long been influential in Maharashtra politics. His elder brother, Srinivas Pawar, is a prominent businessman and trusted advisor, while his nephew Rohit Pawar remains active in politics, but under Sharad Pawar’s faction. His late sister Vijaya Patil had also been a respected member of the family.

The future of Baramati’s political powerhouse will depend heavily on decisions made by the family in the coming weeks.

The Maharashtra government has declared a period of state mourning. Ajit Pawar’s funeral will be held on Wednesday evening in Baramati, with top political leaders from across the country and transcending political lines expected to attend.

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