Mumbai: The Archbishop of Bombay, Most Rev. John Rodrigues, has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic death of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Ajit Pawar, who lost his life in an aircraft crash at Baramati on January 28.
In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Archdiocese of Bombay, Archbishop Rodrigues conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the Government and people of Maharashtra, stating that the sudden and untimely demise of Mr. Pawar has left the entire state in deep shock and mourning.
Remembering Mr. Pawar as a committed and tireless public leader, the Archbishop noted that his lifelong dedication to public service and the welfare of the people of Maharashtra had a lasting impact across communities. He remarked that Mr. Pawar’s leadership qualities, developmental vision, and efforts to promote unity and progress would be remembered with respect and gratitude.
The Archdiocese offered special prayers for the repose of the departed leader’s soul and invoked God’s comfort upon his bereaved family, relatives, colleagues, and all those grieving his loss. The message also affirmed the Church’s solidarity with the people of Maharashtra during this moment of collective sorrow, assuring them of continued prayers and support.
The condolence statement reflected the shared sense of loss felt across the state, marking the passing of a prominent leader whose public life was closely associated with governance, responsibility, and service to society.