Ajit Pawar's Death: Maharashtra Politics in Turmoil, Mahayuti Future Uncertain

• Deputy CM Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Baramati, Pune, leading to three days of mourning in Maharashtra.
• Pawar's demise creates a power vacuum and raises questions about the stability of the ruling Mahayuti alliance (BJP, Shinde-Sena, Ajit-NCP).
• The death is a significant blow to Devendra Fadnavis, who relied on Ajit Pawar to manage Eknath Shinde and maintain alliance balance.
• Future of the NCP factions is uncertain; potential for a reunion between Ajit's faction and Sharad Pawar's NCP is being discussed.
• Sharad Pawar's next moves, including a possible return to active leadership or a merger, could significantly reshape Maharashtra's political landscape.

Why It Matters: Ajit Pawar's sudden death has plunged Maharashtra politics into uncertainty, impacting the ruling alliance and NCP's future.