The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) offices in Mumbai and Delhi were shrouded in grief and disbelief on Wednesday as news spread of the tragic death of party chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. Workers and leaders gathered, many in tears, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of their beloved leader, affectionately known as "Dada."
A Leader Who Always Listened
At the party office in Raigad, NCP's Maharashtra general secretary, Surekha Pednekar, reflected on Pawar's accessible and inclusive leadership style. "Even if you had a very local issue, Dada would give you an audience," she said, emphasizing his willingness to engage with party workers at all levels. Pednekar, who joined politics over three decades ago, was inspired by his methodical approach, noting that he always had a plan of action ready and remembered the names of workers without discrimination based on experience or designation.
Personal Loss for Every Worker
Pednekar added, "It does not feel real. It is not just a loss for the party but every individual worker that he cared for, heard and worked with." As banners were brought to the office to mark the loss, replacing posters of upcoming Zilla Parishad polls, the atmosphere remained somber, with many expressing how Pawar's personal touch made him a guardian figure within the party.
Tributes Pour in from Delhi
In New Delhi, workers and leaders began trickling into the party office on North Avenue, reminiscing about Pawar's last visit five months ago. Party national general secretary and chief spokesperson Brijmohan Shrivastav recalled discussions on Pawar's grand plans for expanding the NCP in the national capital and municipal elections. However, in the wake of the tragedy, Shrivastav stated it was too early to "even think about politics," highlighting the emotional impact of the loss.
Memories of Brotherhood and Hugs
Virendra Singh, who heads the NCP's Delhi unit, shared a poignant memory: "We have lost a guardian. I remember once I went ahead to touch his feet, and he told me not to. Instead, he hugged me. He said I was like his brother and that brothers should hug." This anecdote underscored Pawar's humble and familial approach to leadership, which endeared him to many.
Kuldeep K Bujoo, a core committee member of the NCP Delhi unit, expressed disbelief, saying, "I can't believe I won't see him again." As posters from his birthday celebrations last year hung in the background, party leaders placed a framed photo of Pawar under a tin shade in the courtyard, where they paid heartfelt tributes to a leader who was not just a political figure but a cherished mentor and friend.
