‘All is good’: Shashi Tharoor meets Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi – Inside details of nearly 2-hour meeting
NEW DELHI: After weeks of visible discomfort, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi finally met the senior leader Shashi Tharoor on Thursday. The PTI sources described it as a detailed “redressal” meeting ahead of the crucial Kerala assembly polls. The meeting, held in Kharge’s chamber in the Parliament House complex, lasted for over an hour and forty-five minutes and came amid party concerns that the Tharoor episode could snowball into a larger messaging problem in Kerala, where Congress is pushing hard to return to power after a decade in opposition. Emerging from the meeting, Tharoor struck a deliberately upbeat tone. “We had a discussion with my two party leaders, the LoP and the Congress president. We had a very good, constructive, positive discussion,” he told reporters. Shutting down recent speculations, he said, “All is good and we are moving together on the same page. What more can I say.” — ShashiTharoor (@ShashiTharoor) Inside the meeting Sources told news agency PTI that it was a “comprehensive” meeting in which “a wide array of subjects were covered” and that Kharge and Gandhi made “the time necessary for a thorough discussion.” Tharoor later reinforced the truce with a post on X, thanking both leaders for a “warm and constructive discussion” and repeating the now-official line that they were “all on the same page” as the party moves forward “in the service of the people of India.” A photo from the meeting showing Tharoor, Rahul and Kharge smiling was also put out on social media. What wasn’t discussed: CM face Asked if the issue of the chief ministerial face for Kerala was discussed, Tharoor attempted to close that door firmly. “That was never the issue,” he said, adding: “I am not interested in being the candidate for anything. At the moment I am already an MP … I have their interest to look after in Parliament, that is my job.” The meeting comes after Tharoor was reportedly upset about the treatment meted out to him at a recent Kochi event and what his camp saw as attempts by some state leaders to sideline him. The immediate tipping point, sources close to him had said, was Rahul Gandhi allegedly not acknowledging Tharoor on stage at the ‘Maha Panchayath’ in Kochi on January 19, even while mentioning other leaders. Tharoor, a four-time MP and one of the Congress Working Committee members from Kerala, was present on the dais. Soon after, he skipped a key Kerala strategy meeting chaired by Kharge, triggering speculation that internal tensions were deepening at precisely the wrong moment. Congress is seeking to wrest power from the Left after 10 years in opposition. In that backdrop, the last thing the leadership can afford is the spectacle of internal rivalries, especially when the BJP is also attempting to expand its footprint and the LDF remains organisationally tight. A senior Congress source told PTI: the “proof of the pudding will be in the eating” and the next few weeks will show whether the “same page” line translates into actual political coordination. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Modi Playing the Dalit Caste Card to Push Rahul Gandhi Out of the Ring and Don the Mantle of Dalit Messiah
The Supreme Court’s decision to stay the recent University Grants Commission (UGC) regulation on the ground that it adopted a non-inclusive definition of caste-based discrimination and excluded certain categories from institutional protection is certainly not a setback for Narendra Modi. Instead, it could significantly elevate his stature in the eyes of Dalits and the poor. Politically, the most important observation made by the bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi—“If we don’t intervene, it will lead to dangerous consequences, divide society, and have grave impact”—will have far-reaching implications. The court also observed that by limiting the scope of “caste-based discrimination” only to SC, ST, and OBC categories, the UGC had effectively denied institutional protection and grievance redressal to individuals belonging to the “general” or non-reserved categories who may also face harassment or bias based on caste identity. However, this order also raises a crucial question: why did the court not take suo motu cognisance when hundreds of SC, ST, and OBC students in IITs and IIMs allegedly died by suicide due to discrimination? With the epithet “Hindu Hridaya Samrat” losing relevance amid the mushrooming of multiple claimants, Narendra Modi appears to have chosen a new path in saffron politics—to don the crown of a Dalit Messiah. For the first time in his eleven-year rule as Prime Minister, Modi has made a politically astute move by antagonising traditional upper-caste supporters through measures perceived as protective of Dalits and marginalised students. Modi refused to heed the advice of friends and well-wishers to retrace his steps, despite being aware of the consequences. Some protesters even targeted his caste identity, claiming that “the Teli is out to destroy our future” (Modi belongs to the Teli community, an OBC group). Yet Modi appears unmoved. He seems confident that upper-caste voters will not desert the BJP despite their anger over the new rules. With the 2029 Lok Sabha election in view, winning over Dalits and EBCs appears to be at the top of his priority list. Shivam Singh, one of the founders of the Savarna Sena (Forward Caste Army), stated that protests would be withdrawn if the government assured that general-category students would not be affected. Data shows that complaints related to caste discrimination in universities were around 173 in 2016–17 but rose to over 350 in the 2023–24 academic year, indicating a significant increase. Even memories of 1990, when upper-caste youth launched violent protests against the implementation of the Mandal Commission report, do not seem to deter Modi. During that agitation, over 150 people attempted suicide, with at least 63 succumbing to their injuries. The protest, which began after Prime Minister V.P. Singh announced the implementation of the Mandal Report, turned violent as many students resorted to self-immolation. Rajeev Goswami’s attempt became the symbolic face of the agitation. The compulsion to identify with Dalits and the proletariat has become so acute for Modi’s political survival that he has sought to reinvent himself as a modern Dalit Messiah. This shift also reflects the rise of hardline Hindutva leaders such as Yogi Adityanath within the BJP ecosystem, many of whom are associated with the “Hindu Hridaya Samrat” image. Modi, unwilling to be overshadowed by any rival within the saffron camp, appears determined to chart an independent path by aligning himself with Dalits and EBCs. Recent political developments have significantly strengthened Rahul Gandhi’s appeal among Dalits. What was once a peripheral issue has become a central ideological plank of his leadership as Leader of the Opposition. Although the Congress had historically lost Dalit trust in the 1990s, Rahul Gandhi has attempted to reclaim this space by linking social justice with the demand for a caste census—what he calls an “X-ray of the country.” He is increasingly perceived by Dalits and EBCs as a potential liberator. By placing the caste census at the centre of his political narrative, Rahul Gandhi has moved beyond tokenism. He aims to demonstrate the underrepresentation of Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs in corporate, media, and academic institutions. He has targeted what he calls BJP’s “Manuvaad” and accused the government of weakening constitutional protections for marginalised communities. His claim that 95 per cent of upper-caste bureaucrats decide the fate of Dalits and the poor has found resonance among these communities. With Rahul Gandhi aggressively shaping the Dalit narrative, Modi appears left with little option but to reposition himself. Yet he faces competition not only from regional leaders but also from the BJP’s own targeted outreach strategies. After V.P. Singh, no national leader could fully capture the imagination of Dalits as a Mandal Messiah, although regional leaders like Mulayam Singh Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Ram Vilas Paswan, and Nitish Kumar emerged as protagonists of Mandal politics. Over time, however, they came to be seen largely as caste leaders rather than representatives of collective Dalit empowerment. Experts and liberals fear the emergence of violent protests similar to those witnessed after the Mandal Commission’s implementation in 1990. Upper-caste students in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have already taken to the streets against the UGC’s Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026. Sit-in protests have been organised across universities, with demonstrators claiming that the rules would lead to caste conflict and disrupt social harmony on campuses. Critics argue that the rules are one-sided and lack safeguards against false complaints. They question the effectiveness of “Equity Squads” and the potential for increased conflict. The regulations require every university and college to establish an Equal Opportunity Centre and an Equity Committee, with representation from SC, ST, and OBC communities. Institutions must address complaints within 24 hours, failing which they risk severe penalties. The 2026 regulations mark a legally binding step towards safer and more equitable campuses, aiming to curb the sharp rise in reported caste-based discrimination cases between 2019 and 2024. Yet a crucial question remains: why did the Modi government choose this moment and this mechanism to introduce such rules? In 2022, the Supreme Court had directed the UGC to formulate accessibility guidelines for students with
Dalit laborer dies in Saharanpur after under-construction roof collapses: Married a year ago, pregnant wife left without support
A laborer died on the spot when the roof of an under-construction house collapsed in the Kutubsher police station area of Saharanpur. The deceased has been identified as 21-year-old Nitin, son of Ramesh, a resident of Igrikala village. Nitin had gone to Rupdi Kapurpur village for work. The incident occurred on Wednesday when Nitin was demolishing the old roof of the house while working. Suddenly, the entire roof collapsed, and Nitin was buried under the debris. People nearby tried to rescue him, but he had already died. The news of the incident plunged the deceased’s family into mourning. Upon receiving the information, police and administrative officials reached the spot and assessed the situation. Following the accident, the administration immediately convened a meeting to address potential tensions between the two villages. After mutual discussions, an agreement was reached on the funeral and other related issues, maintaining peace in the area. The deceased, Nitin, had been married for about a year. His wife is approximately eight months pregnant. This incident has deeply affected the family, as Nitin was the sole breadwinner. Upon learning of the incident, BSP District President Rajneesh Bandhu, ASPA District President Sachin Khurana, Bhim Army Jai Bhim organization’s District President Sunny Gautam, and several other office bearers of social organizations reached the spot. These office bearers and socially responsible individuals like Rajneesh Ujala, Asif Ali, Beer Singh, Sukhbir Pradhan, Harshit Pradhan, and Narendra Gautam consoled the family. Immediate financial assistance was provided by the authorities, and further assistance from the government level was assured. In the presence of socially responsible people, the family declined any legal action and took the body with them. The young man’s last rites will be performed this afternoon. Tariq Siddiqui | Saharanpur Courtesy: Hindi News
Cook from Jalandhar castrated in Ludhiana transgender turf war.
Ludhiana: Police have launched a manhunt for a local transgender leader and nine associates following the abduction and forced castration of a 30-year-old cook, an attack allegedly sparked by a bitter territorial dispute. The victim, identified as Manpreet Singh of Jalandhar, was found abandoned and mutilated on a roadside on Tuesday, four days after he was reported missing. Police have claimed in their reports that Manpreet Singh worked as a cook for a transgender group led by Reshma Mahant. He vanished on the morning of Jan 24 after leaving for a walk in Ludhiana’s Khwaja Kothi Chowk area. An acquaintance of the victim, Vidhyarti Rao, has told investigators that the search for Manpreet Singh ended when an anonymous caller reported that he had been admitted to Ludhiana’s civil hospital in critical condition. “Manpreet told me that the accused and his aides abducted him, mutilated him, and dumped him on the roadside,” Rao stated in his complaint. The Investigation Police authorities believe the motive stems from a long-standing rivalry between Reshma Mahant’s group and a rival faction led by Rabina Mahant. The two groups have reportedly been at odds over “area distribution” — the informal division of neighbourhoods where transgender communities traditionally collect alms and perform at ceremonies. “We have registered a case based on the initial complaint, but the victim’s condition is critical,” said assistant sub-inspector Amarjeet Singh. “He has been referred to a hospital in Chandigarh for specialist care.” The Accused Police have registered a case against Rabina Mahant and nine others, identified as Suhana, Sona, Simmi, Kanika, Rehmat, Shiv Kumar, Dilawar, Hifazat, and Pooja. The suspects face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections 118 (1) & (2) (causing grievous hurt voluntarily by dangerous weapons) and 61 (2) (criminal conspiracy). Investigators are currently analysing mobile tower data and CCTV footage to track the suspects, who remain at large. A formal statement from the victim will be recorded once doctors declare him fit to speak. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
SC Commission chairman urges swift action on Dalit welfare schemes
Andhra Pradesh Scheduled Castes Commission chairman K.S. Jawahar on Wednesday appealed to the officials to implement the welfare schemes meant for Scheduled Castes without delay. During interactions with Dalit leaders Mr. Jawahar received grievances on various issues before reviewing the implementation of the welfare schemes with officials. District In-Charge Collector Y. Megha Swaroop, East Godavari Superintendent of Police D. Narasimha Kishore assured timely action to execute the respective schemes and programmes of the government. The Hindu Bureau Courtesy : The Hindu Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Kanimozhi meets Rahul in Delhi
Chennai/Delhi: DMK parliamentary party leader K Kanimozhi met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at his residence in New Delhi on Wednesday, when he urged the DMK to begin the seat-sharing talks for the Tamil Nadu assembly election at the earliest. DMK as well as Congress leaders said the talks were `pleasant and cordial.’ The subject of power sharing too cropped up during the discussions. Though the differences over power-sharing remain inconclusive, there was mutual respect for each other’s position, a Congress leader said. A DMK leader said the interaction helped ease tensions between the allies. Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have conveyed that the DMK should soon begin seat-sharing talks with the committee formed by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The meeting has come a day after Tamil Nadu Congress election in-charge Girish Chodankar said they were waiting for nearly two months for a response from the DMK to begin formal alliance talks. Sources said the meeting between Kanimozhi and Rahul lasted for about 30-minutes. The interaction has reaffirmed the DMK – Congress alliance and put to rest speculation over alleged rifts. “Overall, it was cordial and positive,” he said. The focus of Wednesday’s meeting was on starting negotiations and that the number of seats were not discussed. Both sides agreed that formal talks would begin after chief minister MK Stalin constituted a negotiation committee, expected in early February. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal is likely to visit Tamil Nadu in the first week of February for the talks, party sources said. The meeting Rahul – Kanimozhi meeting has gained significance as a section of the state Congress was pushing for a larger share of seats and a coalition govt. Some Congress leaders publicly supported actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam as a possible alternative, reflecting the unease within the party. The DMK has rejected the proposal for sharing power. “I am confident that we will together arrive at a good solution,” said K Selvaperunthagai, TNCC president. After the alliance framework is finalised, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are expected to campaign in the state. Their planned January visit for village committee meetings was postponed due to the delay in concluding seat-sharing. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
‘Homebound’ actor Shalini Vatsa reveals ‘reading autobiographies written by Dalit women’ for Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, Vishal Jethwa starrer
Actor Shalini Vatsa, who essays the role of Phool Kumari, Chandan’s mother, in Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’, recently spoke about the intense preparation that went into portraying the character with honesty and depth. The conversation took place just days before the 2026 Oscar nominations were announced, at a time when the film had already been selected as India’s official entry. Shalini Vatsa’s research for the role In a conversation with Free Press Journal, Shalini Vatsa revealed that preparing for Phool Kumari involved extensive reading and detailed workshops that helped her step into the world of film. “There were workshop sessions on the script, the character, the story. I usually like to prepare by reading books and other material, academic and fiction, related to the theme and the story of a film.” For ‘Homebound’, she read Dr B. R. Ambedkar’s ‘Annihilation of Caste’, autobiographies written by Dalit women, and Maya Angelou’s autobiographical works. She also worked closely on dialect and pronunciation. “I also had to work on the specific diction for this film. I thank Shreedhar Dubey who worked with us on the diction.” When asked whether she anticipated ‘Homebound’ making it to the Oscars when she first signed the project, Shalini Vatsa made it clear that awards were never on her mind. “When I join the team of a film, my fundamental concern is regarding my character, and my preparation to play it with sincerity and responsibility and to delve into the script and live up to the director’s vision. No, I was not thinking about the Oscars or any other awards.” Why working with Neeraj Ghaywan excited her Vatsa also spoke at length about her admiration for director Neeraj Ghaywan and his filmography, which played a key role in her decision to come on board. “I have loved all his works from ‘Masaan’ to ‘Geeli Pucchi’, and some episodes directed by him in ‘Made in Heaven’. It was exciting to be invited to be a part of his next.” ‘Homebound’ and Oscar 2026 While ‘Homebound’ couldn’t make it to the list, the movies that were nominated in the Best International Feature Film Category for the 98th Academy Awards are ‘The Secret Agent’, ‘It Was Just An Accident’, ‘Sentimental Value’, ‘Sirat’, and ‘The Voice Of Hind Rajab’. Chandan K Anand reflects on Homebound The film’s story revolves around two friends, Shoaib and Chandan, who take on the police recruitment exam, hoping that it will bring dignity to them while fighting caste discrimination in the society. But as they get closer to their objective, pressure and difficulties cause issues in their friendship. The film also showcases how they survive during the COVID-19 pandemic. The cast also includes Harshika Parmar, Shalini Vatsa, Chandan K Anand, and Vijay Vikram Singh. It was based on ‘A Friendship, a Pandemic, and a Death Beside the Highway’ by Basharat Peer. The 122-minute-long film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, while the movie was released in theaters on September 26, 2025. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Rahul Gandhi to join stir seeking NREGA reinstatement in AP
Vijayawada: APCC chief YS Sharmila announced that senior Congress leader and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will soon launch an agitation against the BJP-led NDA centre from Andhra Pradesh at Bandlapalli, where the NREGA scheme was first launched two decades ago, demanding the Centre to roll back the VB-G RAM G Act and reinstate the NREGA in its original form. Sharmila met Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Tuesday and requested him to participate in the agitation campaign. Responding positively to Sharmila’s request, Rahul Gandhi agreed to visit AP and take part in the agitation. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
From Bihar, which shook Indira’s power, now a challenge is being sounded against Rahul! Why did a lifelong Congressman call him a coward?
History is witness that sparks of protest rising from Bihar often shake the power in Delhi. After Indira Gandhi, a front has now opened against Rahul Gandhi from Bihar itself. Former Union Minister Dr. Shakeel Ahmed, a lifelong Congressman, has left the party and called Rahul a “coward” and “incompetent,” which is casting a shadow of crisis over the “shop of love.” Patna: The movement against Indira Gandhi started from Bihar, which led to the end of her rule. Now, the loudest voice of protest against Rahul Gandhi has resonated across the country from Bihar. History is witness that a voice of protest emanating from Bihar is never ineffective. Lest it happen that love departs from the shop of love, and only an empty shop remains. Why are those who love Congress leaving it? In reality, there cannot be a shop of love because it is a matter of the heart. Love is not a commodity that can be found in a shop. Now, the owner and proprietor of the shop (Rahul Gandhi) himself is being accused of lacking both competence and courage. Former Union Minister Dr. Shakeel Ahmed has been a lifelong Congressman. But what happened that he first left the Congress and is now calling Rahul Gandhi a cowardly leader? Grandfather was an MLA in 1937, father and son were MLAs 5 times each Can only those who flatter Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi remain in Congress? Can those with independent opinions not survive in Congress? Three generations of Dr. Shakeel Ahmed’s family served the Congress. His grandfather, Ahmed Ghafoor, was elected to the Bihar Assembly from Congress in 1937. His father, Shakur Ahmed, was an MLA five times from Congress between 1952 and 1977. After 1985, Shakeel Ahmed himself was a Congress MLA five times. He was also a Member of Parliament and a Union Minister. But after the 2025 assembly elections, he left the Congress party. If Shakeel Ahmed, a member of such a dedicated Congress family, has accused Rahul Gandhi of cowardice, there must be some truth to it. Rahul Gandhi lacks an understanding of electoral issues! If someone shows Rahul Gandhi a mirror, instead of fixing his appearance, he becomes intent on breaking the mirror. When Shakeel Ahmed left the party, he said that he still has unwavering faith in the party’s policies, but he has differences with some individuals at the top of the organization. This means his displeasure is with Rahul Gandhi. Some disgruntled Congress leaders say that Rahul Gandhi lacks an understanding of electoral issues. In Bihar, he worked tirelessly for 17 days through the Voter Rights Yatra to make SIR (State Information Commission) an election issue. He tried to create a favorable atmosphere by raising the slogan “Vote thief, leave the throne.” But all his efforts went in vain because it was not an issue in the eyes of the public. Not a single complaint was received against SIR. The debate on Rahul Gandhi’s shortcomings has started again. After Shakeel Ahmed’s statement, the debate on Rahul Gandhi’s shortcomings has intensified once again. It is alleged that Rahul Gandhi has destroyed the internal democracy of the party. When he resigned from the post of Congress president after the electoral defeat, he should have worked for the organization with a clear heart. He should have handed over the reins of the party to a capable leader from outside the family. But Rahul Gandhi could not free himself from the feeling of being the super boss. He did appoint Mallikarjun Kharge, a leader from outside the family, as president, but he kept all the powers in his own hands. Kharge is just a president in name; all the decisions are taken by Rahul Gandhi. Kharge’s signature is just a formality. Now, there is opposition to Rahul Gandhi even at the district level in Bihar. This strong voice against Rahul Gandhi emanating from Bihar will resonate far and wide. Now, even at the district level, Congress leaders have started questioning Rahul Gandhi’s incompetence. Currently, Bihar Congress leaders are holding public meetings in the districts under the ‘Save MNREGA Campaign’. A public meeting was held in Darbhanga on Tuesday. During this time, local leader Ram Narayan accused Rahul Gandhi, saying that the Congress party would not progress in Bihar until the buying and selling of tickets stopped. Local leaders started chanting slogans against Bihar in-charge Krishna Allavaru and state president Rajesh Ram. Authored by: Ashok Kumar Sharma • Edited by: Sunil Pandey About the Author Ashok Kumar Sharma is a senior journalist. He has more than three decades of experience in journalism. He understands the politics and society of Bihar very well and analyzes the changes taking place there with keen observation. He has done special reporting on Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Bihar. Courtesy: Hindi News
‘A leader of the people’: PM Modi, CM Fadnavis, LoP Rahul Gandhi condole Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s death
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences after Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash on Wednesday in Pune district’s Baramati during landing. He said, “Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra. His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.” — narendramodi (@narendramodi) Prime minister also condoled the deaths of others who were on board along with Pawar. — narendramodi (@narendramodi) President Droupadi Murmu also gave her condolences. She said, “The news of the deaths of several people, including Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Ajit Pawar, in an aeroplane crash in Baramati, Maharashtra, is utterly heartbreaking. The untimely demise of Shri Ajit Pawar is an irreplaceable loss. He will always be remembered for his special contribution to Maharashtra’s development, particularly in the cooperative sector.” — rashtrapatibhvn (@rashtrapatibhvn) Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis condoled the death of his deputy in a press conference. “This morning, a very tragic incident occurred. In extremely unforeseen circumstances, the news of the unfortunate demise of our state’s deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar, in an aircraft accident reached everyone, spreading a wave of grief across Maharashtra. For Maharashtra, today is an extremely difficult day,” he said. Further talking about his friendship with Pawar, he added, “Such leadership takes many years to develop, and at a time when he was making very significant contributions to the state’s development, his passing is both unbelievable and shocking. Personally, I have lost a strong and generous friend. This is also an enormous loss for his family.” Leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi also condoled the deaths saying, “The news of the demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar Ji and his fellow travellers in an aeroplane accident today is extremely heart-rending. In this hour of grief, I stand with the people of Maharashtra. I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and their dear ones in this time of sorrow. Defence minister Rajnath Singh expressed his “pain” on X saying, “Deeply shocked and pained to learn about the untimely demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Ajit Pawar.” “Throughout his long public life, he remained committed to the development and prosperity of Maharashtra. He was known for his compassion for the people and his unwavering dedication to public service. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers, and admirers,” he added. — rajnathsingh (@rajnathsingh) Union minister Nitin Gadkari, expressing condolences said, “The news of the untimely demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji is extremely shocking, unfortunate, and heartbreaking. My heartfelt tribute to him. Over the past many years, while working together in the state legislature, I have shared a very close bond with Ajit dada. His administrative acumen, developmental vision, and ability to connect with people have ensured that Ajit dada’s place in Maharashtra’s politics remains unshakable. The premature passing of this people’s leader, who harboured aspirations for Maharashtra’s development, is a loss that cannot be compensated—not just for Maharashtra, but for the entire nation. At this sorrowful moment, my condolences are with the entire Pawar family. May God grant peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti.” Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also shared her condolences saying, “I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and his supporters. I have spoken to Ajit Pawar’s wife and Supriya ji (Supriya Sule).” Commerce minister Piyush Goyal said, “We all are mournful today. He was a close friend and a tall leader in Maharashtra.” Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said, “Deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Shri Ajit Pawar in the plane crash in Baramati earlier today. My sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and all those affected by this loss. May his contributions to public life be remembered, and may the bereaved find strength in this difficult time.” Messages of condolence from across the country Many political leaders from various parts of country expressed their shock and offered condolences after the Maharashtra deputy CM’s demise. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also mourned the loss. “The news of the tragic demise of Shri Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash, is deeply shocking and profoundly distressing. It is an untimely loss of a leader who had a long and promising political career ahead,” he said. West Bengal chief minister also expressed her shock on social media, sharing her statement. “Deeply shocked and stunned by the suddden demise of Ajit Pawar! The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and his co-passengers have died in a disastrous plane crash at Baramati today morning, and I am feeling a deep sense of loss. My condolences to his family including his uncle Sharad Pawar ji, and late Ajitji’s all friends and followers. The incident needs proper investigation.” BSP chief Mayawati said, “The death today of Shri Ajit Pawar ji, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and one of the stalwart leaders of Maharashtra politics, in an aeroplane crash in Baramati is most heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to his family and the members of his party. May nature grant them all the strength to bear this sorrow.” Andhra Pradesh CM, NDA ally N Chandrababu Naidu also issued a statement on social media. He said, “Shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji in a plane crash this morning. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and followers. Om Shanthi.” “The tragic plane crash in Baramati, Maharashtra, which claimed the lives of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar ji and other members, is extremely heartbreaking and soul-wrenching. My humble tribute to them. My condolences are with the bereaved families. I pray to Lord Shri Ram that he grants eternal peace