Maharashtra declares state holiday, three-day mourning after Ajit Pawar’s demise

Hours after the tragic demise of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the state government expressed deep grief over the loss of one of Maharashtra’s most dedicated and grounded leaders. Addressing a press conference, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced three days of state mourning to honour Pawar’s contributions to the state and its people.

Recalling Ajit Pawar’s contributions, CM Fadnavis said, “He was a leader connected to the ground. The passing of Ajit Dada Pawar is deeply saddening. There is grief in his family and among all of us.” He added that Pawar was his strong and generous friend. “This is a difficult day for the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have spoken to us regarding this accident,” Fadnavis added.