In a somber atmosphere at the NCP party offices, the news of the tragic demise of NCP Chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash has left party workers and leaders in shock and grief. The loss of their beloved leader, fondly known as Ajit Dada, has cast a pall over party offices and hearts of those who admired him.
“Even if you had a very local issue, Dada would give you an audience,” reminisces Surekha Pednekar, NCP’s Maharashtra general secretary, as she recalls Ajit Pawar's approachability and dedication to his party workers. Pednekar, who was present at the party office in Raigad, shares how Ajit Dada's leadership inspired her and others for over 30 years.
Party workers echoed the sentiment, expressing how Ajit Pawar always had a plan of action ready, remembered the names of his party workers, and treated everyone with respect, regardless of their experience or position within the party.
As the news spread, party offices in Raigad and Baramati saw an influx of grieving workers and leaders, with baers and framed photos marking the loss of a beloved leader who cared deeply for each individual in the party.
In New Delhi, party members gathered at the NCP office on 79, North Avenue, reflecting on Ajit Pawar's last visit and his vision for the party's growth in the national capital. Brijmohan Shrivastav, the party's national general secretary, emphasized that it is too early to focus on politics, as they mourn the loss of a guardian and mentor.
Reflecting on Ajit Pawar's compassionate leadership, Virendra Singh, who heads the NCP’s Delhi unit, shared a touching memory of how Ajit Dada considered him a brother and valued their bond. The sentiment was echoed by Kuldeep K Bujoo, a core committee member of NCP Delhi unit, who expressed disbelief at the thought of not seeing their leader again.
As the NCP community mourns the loss of a guiding light, the legacy of Ajit Pawar's leadership and compassion continues to inspire and resonate among party members and supporters.