Mon Feb 23 15:25:43 UTC 2026: # Maharashtra Leaders Mourn Ajit Pawar, Reflect on His Political Legacy

The Story:
Maharashtra’s political landscape paused on February 23, 2026, as leaders across party lines paid emotional tributes to late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who tragically died in an air crash on January 28, 2026. During the opening day of the Budget session, the Legislature moved a condolence motion, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis leading the tributes, acknowledging Pawar as a capable administrator and a leader deeply committed to public life. The event was marked by heartfelt speeches from various political figures, including Uddhav Thackeray, Eknath Shinde, and members of the Pawar family, as they recalled his contributions and impact on Maharashtra’s political scene.

The condolence meeting held later in the evening at NSCI Dome drew a diverse attendance, including industrialists like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, former CJI B.R. Gavai, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Maratha leader Manoj Jarange Patil, underscoring the breadth of Ajit Pawar’s influence. Speakers highlighted his dedication to public service, his ability to navigate complex political situations, and his commitment to supporting colleagues, even across party lines.

Key Points:

  • Maharashtra Legislature held a condolence motion for late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on February 23, 2026, following his death on January 28, 2026.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Ajit Pawar as “the best Chief Minister Maharashtra never had” and highlighted their long association.
  • Uddhav Thackeray recalled their unexpected alliance in 2019 and acknowledged Ajit Pawar’s resilience in the face of corruption allegations.
  • Various leaders, including Eknath Shinde, Aditi Tatkare, and Rohit Pawar, offered their condolences, with some becoming visibly emotional.
  • A condolence meeting was held at NSCI Dome, attended by political leaders, industrialists, and other prominent figures.
  • Fadnavis revisited the 2019 swearing-in ceremony when Ajit Pawar briefly aligned with the BJP.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ajit Pawar’s death has created a significant political vacuum in Maharashtra, as acknowledged by multiple leaders.
  • His ability to work across party lines and his dedication to public service were consistently emphasized in the tributes.
  • The event underscored the complex and often unpredictable nature of Maharashtra’s political alliances, particularly referencing the 2019 alliance between Ajit Pawar and the BJP.
  • The emotional tributes highlight the personal connections that exist even amidst political rivalries.
  • The broad attendance at the condolence meeting demonstrates the wide-ranging respect and influence Ajit Pawar held.

Impact Analysis:

The death of Ajit Pawar undoubtedly reshapes the political dynamics of Maharashtra. His absence could lead to shifts in power within the NCP and impact coalition arrangements in the state government. The tributes paid by leaders from opposing parties suggest a potential for bipartisan cooperation in addressing the challenges facing Maharashtra. The long-term impact will depend on how his political legacy is carried forward by his successors and how the political landscape adapts to his absence. The focus on his commitment to public service and his ability to bridge political divides could serve as a model for future leaders.

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