Lost a Personal Friend in Ajit Dada, a Leader of Ability, Discipline, and Resolve: CM Fadnavis Pays Emotional Tribute in the Assembly

Mumbai, Feb 23: During the Budget Session of the Maharashtra Legislature, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis moved a condolence motion in the Legislative Assembly and paid an emotional tribute to the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Expressing deep personal grief, the Chief Minister said that in Ajit Dada, a capable, disciplined, and determined leader, he had lost not just a political colleague but a close personal friend.

Speaking on the condolence motion, Chief Minister Fadnavis described the late Deputy Chief Minister as the very embodiment of tireless work ethic. He said Ajit Pawar seamlessly combined punctuality, discipline, and decisiveness throughout his political career. Recalling his working style, the Chief Minister noted that Ajit Pawar would arrive at the Mantralaya even before scheduled hours, review the day’s work meticulously, and ensure that no file remained pending. His presence, Fadnavis said, infused the administration with a unique sense of energy and momentum.

Fadnavis further stated that Ajit Pawar was widely recognised as an effective administrator because of his in-depth study of every subject, clarity of thought, and courage in decision-making. There was a strong sense of trust in him among both public representatives and officials. Whenever the interests of the state were at stake, Ajit Pawar would rise above political differences and adopt a constructive and positive approach, reflecting his distinctive work culture, the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting Ajit Pawar’s contribution to Maharashtra’s development, Fadnavis said the late leader took firm and far-reaching decisions in key sectors such as infrastructure, finance, agriculture, and irrigation. He remained resolute on issues related to public welfare schemes and worked consistently to ensure that their benefits reached the common people of the state. With his passing, the Chief Minister observed, a significant void had been created in Maharashtra’s public life. The legacy of his work and the administrative culture he established would continue to inspire future generations, he added while paying heartfelt tribute.

“Maharashtra Lost a Chief Minister It Never Had”

Chief Minister Fadnavis remarked that, in his view, “Ajit Pawar was the best Chief Minister Maharashtra never had.” He said that in Ajit Dada, the state could have had an excellent Chief Minister, but fate had denied that opportunity. Ajit Pawar possessed all the qualities required for the highest office—complete administrative capability, firm resolve, and personal integrity, the Chief Minister said.

He further reflected that when a leader like Ajit Pawar departs, the true meaning of loss becomes evident. “That void is not only political, but also emotional,” Fadnavis said. “Some wounds may heal with time, but some pain remains forever,” he added, expressing the depth of his grief.

On this occasion, condolences were also expressed in the Assembly over the demise of former ministers Surupsing Naik, Dr. Shalinitai Vasantrao Patil, Raj Khangarji Purohit, and former members Gangadhar Mahalappa Patne, Neelkanth Chintaman Phalak, Vishwas Ramchandra Nandekar, and Ruplekha Khanderao Dhore.