‘Rajkaran Lay Vangal’ Banners In Nashik Spark Political Buzz, Raise Questions Over FIR Delay

Nashik: Following the accidental demise of ‘Dada’ Ajit Pawar, a major discussion has erupted across Nashik city. Banners featuring Ajit Pawar, put up by unidentified individuals in the Mumbai Naka area, have caught widespread attention. These banners carry an emotional message referencing his 40-year-long political career and prominently use his own words.

The banners read: “Having spent 40 years in politics, Dada’s word carried immense weight across Maharashtra. Dada, you have departed, yet Maharashtra failed to truly appreciate your worth. No FIR. Rajkaran Lay Vangal (Politics is a real mess) is a phrase frequently used by the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during public interactions.

Such banners have been erected in prominent parts of the city. Notably, no individual or organisation has claimed responsibility, as no names are printed on the banners. A photograph of Ajit Pawar also features prominently, adding to the emotional appeal.

Ajit Pawar passed away on January 28, 2026, in a tragic plane crash near Baramati. The accident occurred during the landing phase while he was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati aboard a chartered Learjet 45 aircraft. A total of five people, including Pawar, lost their lives in the incident.

In the immediate aftermath, Rohit Pawar took a strong stand, highlighting that even a standard First Information Report (FIR) had not been registered in connection with the crash. He attempted to file a complaint with the Mumbai Police; however, an FIR was not initially recorded. The case was later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Rohit Pawar demanded that criminal charges be filed against the airline company, DGCA officials, and other concerned parties, raising suspicions of possible irregularities or foul play.

Against this backdrop, the banners in Nashik have intensified the political atmosphere. The use of Ajit Pawar’s popular catchphrase, “Rajkaran Lay Vangal” (“Politics is a real mess”), has struck an emotional chord among citizens. While many are expressing grief over his untimely demise, there is also growing dissatisfaction regarding the delay in conducting a thorough investigation and registering an FIR.

Local residents said, “Dada was a towering figure in Maharashtra politics. His word always carried weight. This is an emotional tribute, but it also reflects public sentiment.”

However, there is still no clarity about who installed the banners or their exact intent. The police have begun inquiries to trace those responsible.

Ajit Pawar’s death had sent shockwaves across Maharashtra’s political landscape. Since then, Rohit Pawar has consistently pushed for an FIR and a comprehensive probe. Preliminary findings had pointed to poor visibility and possible security lapses at the airport, but demands for a full and transparent investigation continue.

At present, these banners have become a major talking point in Nashik. Political leaders, activists, and citizens are actively debating the issue, once again bringing focus to Ajit Pawar’s legacy and the unresolved questions surrounding the investigation into the tragic crash.