Who was Ajit Pawar? His party, family, political journey, BJP ties, and the story of ‘Dada’ who died in a Baramati plane crash

Ajit Anantrao Pawar, popularly known as ‘Dada’, was one of the most powerful and decisive leaders in Maharashtra politics. A six-time Deputy Chief Minister, Pawar played a central role in reshaping the state’s political landscape in recent years. Known for his blunt style and administrative grip, Pawar remained a dominant figure until his death in a plane crash in Baramati, the constituency that defined his political life.

Ajit Pawar's party

Ajit Pawar was the National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). In early 2024, the Election Commission of India recognised his faction as the “real” NCP and awarded it the party name and the “Clock” symbol. This decision gave his group official control over the party identity after a major split.

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Is Ajit Pawar from the BJP?

Ajit Pawar was not from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, his political journey saw him align with the BJP-led alliance at key moments. In November 2019, he shocked Maharashtra by taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister alongside BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis in an early morning ceremony. That government lasted only 80 hours.

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Later, in July 2023, Pawar led a vertical split in the NCP and joined the Eknath Shinde-led Mahayuti government, which included the BJP. He served as Deputy Chief Minister alongside Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde.

How many MPs does Ajit Pawar have?

The Ajit Pawar’s control over the NCP faction was recognised by the Election Commission. Under his leadership, NCP won 41 seats in the Maharashtra state elections.

Baramati: Ajit Pawar's political fortress

Ajit Pawar represented the Baramati Assembly constituency seven consecutive times since 1991, winning every election by massive margins. Baramati remained the centre of his political power and identity.

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His influence was deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s cooperative sector. He served as chairman of the Pune District Central Cooperative Bank for 16 years and held strong control over sugar cooperatives and milk unions across the state.

A minister with unmatched administrative reach

Over his long career, Pawar handled almost every major ministerial portfolio in Maharashtra, including Finance, Planning, Water Resources, Power, and Rural Development. He worked under several Chief Ministers, including Vilasrao Deshmukh, Ashok Chavan, Prithviraj Chavan, and Uddhav Thackeray.

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As Deputy Chief Minister, he controlled key departments and effectively managed the state’s finances, earning a reputation for efficiency among bureaucrats.

Ajit Pawar was known for bold moves and blunt words

Ajit Pawar’s politics stood out for risk-taking and speed. He often began his day at 6 a.m. and made on-the-spot decisions during meetings and field visits. His public image was that of a leader who spoke directly and avoided vague promises.

These qualities earned him respect as well as criticism, but kept him firmly at the centre of Maharashtra politics.

Allegations and legal battles against Ajit Pawar

Pawar’s career was not free from controversy. He faced allegations linked to the Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scam and the Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank case. He consistently denied wrongdoing and received legal reliefs over time.

Despite these challenges, he continued to remain politically relevant.

Ajit Pawar family ties and political split with Uncle Sharad Pawar

Ajit Pawar was the nephew of veteran leader Sharad Pawar. Their political split marked a turning point for the NCP. However, reports in 2026 suggested tactical understandings and “friendly fights” between the two factions in local elections, helping the family retain influence in Maharashtra’s sugar belt.

Ajit Pawar Family

Ajit Pawar was married to Sunetra Pawar, who is active in social and political work in Baramati. After losing the Lok Sabha election from Baramati to his cousin Supriya Sule of the NCP-SP, Pawar nominated his wife to the Rajya Sabha.