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Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief

said political differences never came in the way of their personal equation. Thackeray said the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) chief’s decision to take a different path did not strain their relationship, and that he had lost a strong leader and an outstanding colleague.

Raj Thackeray, MNS chief

‘Ajit Pawar’s departure marks the loss of an outstanding and capable leader for Maharashtra, remembered as remarkably straightforward, free of caste bias, and firmly in command of administration.’

Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister

remembered Ajit Pawar as a mass leader with a deep grassroots connect, saying his death was a personal and irreparable loss that had left him “deeply distressed”. “I am numb and at a loss for words.”’

Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister

said Ajit Pawar’s demise was a great loss to the state, describing him as a studious, courageous, and disciplined leader with a strong command over administration. “He was like an elder brother and one who never hesitated to say no to schemes that would burden the state exchequer.”

Sharad Pawar, NCP-SP founder

said Maharashtra has lost one of the most efficient leaders. “This is an irreparable loss. The plane crash is purely an accident, and I urge people not to politicise this issue.”

Supriya Sule, NCP-SP leader and cousin of Ajit Pawar

broke down in tears while meeting family members in Baramati. “Devastated”, she said in a one-word post on her social media handle.