A look at Indian politicians and prominent leaders who died in tragic plane crashes, from Madhavrao Scindia to Ajit Pawar, highlighting major aviation disasters that reshaped politics, governance, and national history over decades.
The tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a recent plane crash has once again brought national attention to the long and sorrowful history of aviation disasters involving prominent political leaders and public figures in India. At 66, Pawar’s sudden demise has shocked the political fraternity and the nation, serving as a grim reminder that air travel, despite technological advancements, has not always spared even the most influential lives.
Over the decades, India has witnessed several devastating air accidents that claimed the lives of senior politicians, military leaders, industrialists, and public servants. These incidents not only resulted in personal tragedies but also altered political trajectories, administrative continuity, and public sentiment across states and regions.
Ajit Pawar (2026)
Ajit Pawar, a towering figure in Maharashtra politics and a seasoned administrator, lost his life in a fatal plane crash along with security personnel and crew members. Known for his strong grassroots influence and decisive leadership, Pawar’s death marks one of the most significant political losses in recent aviation history. The incident has reignited debates over aviation safety protocols for VIP movements.
Vijay Rupani (2025)
Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani died in a catastrophic plane crash on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad. The London-bound aircraft crashed moments after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. Rupani’s death sent shockwaves across the nation, as he was widely respected for his administrative experience and calm political demeanor.
General Bipin Rawat (2021)
India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, died in a tragic helicopter crash on December 8, 2021, near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. He was travelling from Sulur to Wellington with his wife and 11 others. The loss was considered one of the most severe blows to India’s military leadership in modern times.
Dorjee Khandu (2011)
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu was killed on April 30, 2011, when his helicopter crashed in the mountainous West Kameng district. Poor visibility and challenging terrain were cited as contributing factors. His death deeply affected governance in the northeastern state.
YS Rajasekhara Reddy (2009)
Popularly known as YSR, the former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister died on September 2, 2009, when his Bell 430 helicopter crashed in the dense Nallamala forests. Adverse weather conditions played a major role. His death led to widespread public grief and political instability in the state.
O.P. Jindal (2005)
Industrialist and Haryana Power Minister O.P. Jindal died on March 2, 2005, after his helicopter crashed near Saharanpur due to technical failure. His passing left a lasting impact on both Indian politics and the steel industry.
Madhavrao Scindia (2001)
Senior Congress leader Madhavrao Scindia was killed on September 30, 2001, when a Cessna aircraft crashed near Manipuri in Uttar Pradesh. He was travelling to Kanpur to address a public rally. Poor weather conditions were identified as the primary cause.
Surendra Nath (1994)
The then Punjab Governor Surendra Nath and nine family members died when a government Super King aircraft crashed into mountainous terrain in Himachal Pradesh on July 9, 1994. Bad weather severely hampered navigation.
Sanjay Gandhi (1980)
Sanjay Gandhi, son of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, died at just 34 when the small aircraft he was piloting crashed shortly after take-off from Delhi’s Safdarjung Airport on June 23, 1980. The crash occurred during aerobatic manoeuvres, marking one of the earliest high-profile aviation tragedies in Indian politics.
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