Pune: In a week marked by profound grief for Maharashtra’s political landscape, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar on Sunday paid floral tributes at the memorial of Maharashtra’s first Chief Minister, Yashwantrao Chavan, at Preetisangam Ghat in Karad on Monday.
This was Sunetra Pawar’s first visit to the historic memorial since taking the oath as Deputy Chief Minister. The samadhi at Preetisangam holds deep political and emotional significance. The spot used to be frequently visited by her late husband, Ajit Pawar, who shared a long-standing bond with the legacy of Yashwantrao Chavan.
Senior leaders and officials present during the tribute included Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation Makrand Patil, State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar, Raigad MP Sunil Tatkare and Rajya Sabha MP Nitin Patil, former MP Shriniwas Patil, former MLA Balasaheb Patil, Satara District Collector Santosh Patil, Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi, Karad Municipal Council President Rajendra Singh Yadav, along with representatives of various organisations.
Sunetra Pawar’s visit came days after a tragic plane crash in Baramati claimed the lives of Ajit Pawar and his personal security officer, Vidip Jadhav, along with three others.
Despite grappling with her own personal loss, Sunetra Pawar earlier travelled to Taradgaon village in Phaltan Tehsil of Satara District to meet the family of Vidip Jadhav. In the meeting she offered them condolences and emotional support. Witnesses described the meeting as deeply moving, with the Deputy Chief Minister consoling Jadhav’s wife and children.
She also assured them of unwavering support from her and her family in the days ahead. “In any trouble, my entire family and I stand with you,” she told the bereaved family. This moment left many present visibly emotional.
Vidip Jadhav was regarded as one of the most trusted officers in Maharashtra’s security apparatus. According to family members, he served as Ajit Pawar’s PSO since 2019 and had earlier handled security responsibilities for then Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis between 2016 and 2019. Within the Maharashtra Police Force, he was known for his discipline, calm demeanour, and unwavering sense of duty.
